Fire or life threatening emergencies: 000
Emergency Information: 13 3337
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Fire or life threatening emergencies: 000
Emergency Information: 13 3337
SES Emergency Assistance: 132 500
The theme for the 2026 WAFES Conference is Bright Futures, Stronger Services: Celebrating the people who shape our sector today and those who will guide it tomorrow. By embracing new ideas, bridging generational strengths and welcoming emerging volunteers, we look to the future with a commitment to modern, innovative and connected emergency services.
This year’s keynote speakers are:
Jessica Watson OAM
At age 16, Jessica became the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world navigating some of the world’s most remote oceans and surviving seven knockdowns and 210 days alone at sea. In doing so she captured the hearts of not only Australians but millions of supporters around the globe as they cheered on the 16-year-old Aussie, who had overcome adversity and the odds to achieve what many thought impossible.
Scott Millar
Scott is a high-impact generational strategist, dynamic keynote speaker and trusted voice on the future of work. Driven by a mission to bridge generational divides and future-proof organisations, Scott empowers leaders to connect with the next generation of consumers and employees in meaningful, strategic ways.
Further details on the Saturday conference program will be announced in coming months.
Volunteers attending the 2026 WAFES Conference have the exclusive opportunity to participate in a wide selection of behind-the-scenes tours on Friday 4 September.
The tours provide insight into the many specialised teams within WA emergency services and offer a rare chance to learn from the best. Tours are chosen when completing the registration process.
All tours depart and return to Crown Perth, while the Ministerial Volunteer Advisory Forum is held onsite at Crown.
Catch up with old friends, make new connections and learn about some of the game-changing projects underway at DFES during Friday night’s sundowner on the Burswood foreshore.
As the sun sets over the picturesque Swan River, talk one-on-one with key personnel who are at the forefront of next-generation initiatives shaping the future of WA’s emergency services.
Walk from booth to booth to discover what these exciting projects mean for volunteers and career personnel. You’ll also get a firsthand look at the latest technological advancements in the DFES fleet, with new appliances and vessels on display.
Please note: To attend, volunteers and DFES staff must select the sundowner as one of their optional events during registration. A parent or guardian must accompany attendees under 18 years of age. Children of attendees are not permitted.
The WAFES Awards recognise volunteers and DFES staff who have gone above and beyond to help communities prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.
Winners for 2026 will be announced during a gala dinner at Crown Perth on Saturday 5 September.
This spectacular night will showcase the inspiring stories of all nominees and celebrate their excellence, professionalism and selflessness.
Volunteers and DFES staff can register to attend the WAFES Awards gala dinner when completing their conference registration.
To find out more, visit the WAFES Awards website.
Please note: A parent or guardian must accompany attendees under 18.
This year, the WAFES Conference will introduce a youth edition – a new initiative designed to inspire the next generation of emergency services cadets and junior volunteers.
Running on Saturday 5 September, this dedicated youth stream will give up to 25 cadets and juniors the opportunity to experience the WAFES Conference and feel part of the broader DFES community.
The program offers them the chance to develop their skills, meet peers from across the State and strengthen their leadership potential in a supportive and inspiring environment.
As part of the experience, they will attend the Saturday morning plenary session, where they will hear from keynote speaker Jessica Watson OAM, gaining inspiration from her remarkable journey and insights into leadership, resilience and determination. The program will also provide valuable opportunities for them to connect with volunteers from across the State during shared meal breaks, helping them build networks and feel part of the wider emergency services community.
