Firefighters across NSW will receive stronger medical and income support after the Minns Government today passed landmark reforms expanding access to workers’ compensation for those diagnosed with cancer. The laws extend coverage to firefighters employed by Fire and Rescue NSW, the NSW Rural Fire Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the NSW Forestry Corporation and other state agencies, as well as volunteer firefighters.
At the centre of the reform is the “presumptive cancers” legislation, which removes the burden on firefighters to prove their illness was caused by work. NSW is the first jurisdiction in Australia to recognise two female reproductive cancers — vulval and vaginal — as presumptive, a national first that underscores the government’s commitment to equity for male and female first responders.
The list of presumptive cancers has been broadened to include lung, pancreatic, thyroid and skin cancers, along with cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, vulval and penile cancers. These join the 12 cancers already recognised under the Workers Compensation Act 1987, such as leukemia, brain, bladder, kidney, breast, testicular and prostate cancers, as well as non‑Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, oesophageal, colorectal and ureter cancers.
From 6 August 2025, firefighters diagnosed with one of the newly listed cancers will be entitled to the presumption. Those whose claims were previously denied will be able to re‑lodge under the new provisions. An expert panel will be established to assess volunteer claims, ensuring coverage applies to those who regularly engage in frontline firefighting.
Jihad Dib, NSW Minister for Emergency Services, said the reforms mark a milestone in supporting frontline workers. “Firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to keep us all safe. This reform is an important step in making sure they are better supported when they need it most,” he said. Dib highlighted NSW’s national leadership in recognising female reproductive cancers, crediting strong advocacy from unions and associations.
Meanwhile, Sophie Cotsis, Minister for Industrial Relations, said the legislation goes further than other states and territories by including reproductive cancers. “By expanding the list, we’re recognising the real risks firefighters face on the job and the long latency periods that come with certain cancers,” she said.
The reforms have been welcomed across the sector. Fire Brigade Employees’ Union Secretary Leighton Drury said the bill “goes a long way to acknowledging the inherent risks of the firefighting profession.” Rural Fire Service Association President Scott Campbell AFSM noted that volunteers provide fire cover for 95 per cent of NSW and welcomed the recognition of their service. “These new laws mean volunteers who, unfortunately, suffer cancer as a result of their service will be properly covered, including those with claims that were previously declined.”
