FORTEM AUSTRALIA LIMITED is an Australian not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting first responders and their families, with a particular focus on mental health and wellbeing. Established in October 2019, it is Australia's only independent, not-for-profit organisation offering comprehensive and integrated mental wellbeing services tailored specifically for the first responder community[4][3].

Background and Purpose

First responders—including those working or volunteering in fire services, ambulance, police, state emergency, and marine rescue agencies—are frequently exposed to confronting, traumatic, and dangerous situations. This exposure leads to higher rates of psychological distress and mental health conditions within this community, as well as stress affecting their families. Fortem Australia aims to nurture resilience in first responders so that they become "bendable, not breakable," by providing early-intervention support programs that promote mental fitness and wellbeing[1][3].

Services and Activities

Fortem Australia delivers an integrated range of confidential services designed to support both first responders and their immediate families. These services include wellbeing activities, community engagement, and psychological support informed by research and best practices. The organisation recognises the vital role families play in first responders' lives and incorporates family support as part of its holistic approach.

A notable initiative by Fortem is "Thank a First Responder Day," held annually on the second Wednesday in June. This national day of appreciation encourages community recognition for the challenging work and sacrifices made by over 370,000 first responders across Australia[3].

Fortem also collaborates with agencies such as Marine Rescue NSW, providing mental fitness and wellbeing programs tailored to volunteers and their families, including clinical psychology support and care coordination, particularly for those impacted during critical incidents like the 2019–2020 Black Summer bushfires. The organisation maintains offices and regional outreach programs in locations including Canberra, Sydney, Wollongong, Port Macquarie, and Bega[5].

Impact and Recognition

Since its inception, Fortem Australia has become a leading voice in first responder welfare, filling a crucial gap in specialised wellbeing and mental health support for those who protect and serve Australian communities. Its community-focused and research-driven approach contributes significantly to building resilience and transforming struggle into strength within this unique population[4][3].

This article summarises Fortem Australia Limited as a key organisation focused on the mental health and support needs of Australia's first responders and their families, highlighting its services, community engagement, and national initiatives to foster wellbeing and resilience.

[1] https://fortemaustralia.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/6e70a56a-834f-e911-a97c-000d3ad06f2d [3] https://fortemaustralia.org.au/who-we-are/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/6e70a56a-834f-e911-a97c-000d3ad06f2d/documents/a659d9eb-3b30-eb11-bf70-000d3ad1f9f4 [5] https://www.marinerescuensw.com.au/members/member-support/fortem-australia-support-services-and-activities/