
How do I become a Firefighter in Cairns?
Get qualified to work as a Firefighter with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Course providers in Cairns
The following providers offer Firefighter courses in Cairns, Queensland.










Common questions
In Australia, a full time Firefighter generally earns $1,490 per week ($77,480 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has seen an increase in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 12,200 people working as a Firefighter in Australia compared to 11,200 five years ago. Firefighters may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re planning a career as a Firefighter, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations). This course allows you to specialise in urban fires, wildfires, aviation incidents and isolated structural fires. You’ll also learn about advanced resuscitation, incident scene safety and management, fire suppression techniques and skills for driving operational vehicles. A Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting Operations) may also be appropriate.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Firefighter
Further reading


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11th December 2019All firefighter courses
- HLTAID015 Provide Advanced Resuscitation and Oxygen Therapy
- FWPCOT3329 Perform Complex Four Wheel Drive Operations
- PUA30619 Certificate III in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations)
- PUASAR032 Undertake Vertical Rescue
- PUACOM005 Foster a Positive Organise Image in the Community
- PUAOPE019 Control a Level 3 Incident
- 22575VIC Course in Basic Oxygen Administration for First Aid
- PUACOM001 Communicate in the Workplace
- MSMWHS216 Operate Breathing Apparatus
- VU23311 Prepare to Work within the Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System
- AHCMOM213 Operate and Maintain Chainsaws
- PUAFIR309 Operate Pumps
- FWPCOT3326 Recover Four Wheel Drive Vehicle
- PUAFIR308 Employ Personal Protection at a Hazardous Materials Incident
- PUA20719 Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting Operations)
- PUAEQU001 Prepare, Maintain and Test Response Equipment
- MARF044 Prevent, Control and Fight Fires on Board a Vessel (Advanced Firefighting)
- PUAFIR204 Respond to Wildfire
- TLIF2018 Operate Firefighting Equipment
- PUAFIR207 Operate Breathing Apparatus Open Circuit
- UEGNSG040 Use a Portable Detector to Locate a Combustible Gas Escape
- PUAOPE015 Conduct Briefings and Debriefings
- RIIERR205D Apply Initial Response First Aid
- PUASAR022 Participate in a Rescue Operation
- PUA20622 Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations)
- 22611VIC Course in Awareness of the Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS)
- FWPCOT2259 & FWPCOT2254 Use and Maintain Chainsaws
- PUAFIR324 Render Hazardous Materials Incidents Safe
- PUASAR024 Undertake Road Crash Rescue
- PUAFIR203 Respond to Urban Fire
Firefighter careers
If you are looking to embark on a rewarding career in emergency services, exploring Firefighter courses in Cairns is a great starting point. With a selection of 11 beginner courses available in the region, aspiring firefighters can develop essential skills and knowledge required for the job. Popular options include Operate Breathing Apparatus MSMWHS216 and Prevent, Control and Fight Fires on Board a Vessel (Advanced Firefighting) MARF044, which are designed to prepare you for real-life scenarios in a safe environment.
TAFE Queensland is a key training provider delivering these important courses in Cairns, ensuring you receive the highest quality education to succeed in your firefighting career. Enrolling in a course through a trusted Registered Training Organisation like TAFE Queensland means you are gaining invaluable insights from experienced instructors who are well-versed in the industry. Consider courses such as Participate in a Rescue Operation PUASAR022 and Perform Land Based Swiftwater and Floodwater Rescue and Recovery PUASAR001, which can enhance your skill set significantly.
Completing Firefighter courses in Cairns may open up numerous career pathways beyond traditional firefighting. Graduates often find themselves exploring roles in the Public Safety sector, or even fields related to Law Enforcement and Volunteer Firefighter opportunities. The skills you gain from these courses can also lead to positions such as a Logistics Administrator or even a Drone Operator, showing the diverse nature of employment pathways.
As you consider taking the first steps towards a fulfilling career, remember that each course is designed to meet the specific needs of students with no prior experience in firefighting. Whether you are interested in Australian Defence Force options or further advancing your knowledge in Government and Public Sector studies, your journey starts here. Explore the variety of short courses available in Cairns and discover how you can become a vital part of your community's safety and wellbeing.