The psychological impact of emergency service work is being brought into focus ahead of Thank a First Responder Day, with new data showing many frontline workers continue to carry the effects of trauma long after responding to emergencies.
National first responder support organisation Fortem Australia says the pressures on emergency services have intensified, with more than 14 million Triple Zero calls recorded across Australia during 2025.
The figures come as communities throughout the New England region prepare to take part in the organisation’s annual Thank a First Responder Day on June 10 and the accompanying 10 Days of Gratitude campaign.
According to research highlighted by Fortem Australia, one in three first responders experience high or very high psychological distress related to workplace trauma, while more than half report a traumatic incident that has had a profound impact on their lives.
Chief Executive Officer Mick Willing said the emotional burden of emergency work often remains unseen.
“First responders don’t just attend emergencies, they absorb them,” Mr Willing said.
“Whether it’s police arriving first at a violent incident, paramedics treating life-threatening injuries, or firefighters responding to disasters, they are stepping into the rawest moments most people will never witness.”
Mr Willing said repeated exposure to traumatic situations could affect both first responders and their families.
“These aren’t one-off experiences. It’s the cumulative exposure to trauma, shift after shift, that takes a real toll,” he said.
In recognition of those ongoing impacts, Fortem Australia has expanded eligibility for its support programs to include former first responders who have left active service within the past decade.
The organisation says the move reflects growing awareness that psychological injuries do not necessarily end when a career in emergency services finishes.
Independent research conducted by Gallipoli Medical Research found participants in Fortem’s programs reported significant improvements in wellbeing and mental health outcomes. Since 2019, more than 25,000 people have engaged with the organisation’s services.
The 10 Days of Gratitude campaign, commencing May 31, will highlight different aspects of emergency service work, including disaster response, road rescue, marine operations, search and rescue, emergency communications and the contribution of first responder families.
Mr Willing said community recognition was important, but practical support was equally valuable.
“Saying thank you is powerful, but it’s just the beginning,” he said.
“We’re asking Australians to turn that gratitude into action – whether that’s leaving a message, shouting a coffee, supporting a local initiative or donating to vital programs.”
Thank a First Responder Day will be observed nationally on June 10, providing an opportunity for communities to acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by emergency service workers and their families throughout the year.
To get involved or leave a message of thanks for a first responder, visit the Fortem website.
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