The Commissioner is responsible for leading and managing the Queensland Fire Department, which encompasses Queensland Fire & Rescue and the Rural Fire Service Queensland. The Commissioner ensures the efficient and effective delivery of fire and emergency services across the state and represents the department at local, state, national and international forums. This includes active membership in the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC), the AFAC Commissioners and Chief Officers Strategic Committee and the national Champions of Change Fire and Emergency Group.
Steve Smith was appointed Commissioner of the former QFES on 17 May 2024 and is the Chair of the Queensland Fire Department Executive Leadership Team.
Steve commenced his career in 1994 and progressed through operational and leadership ranks, attaining the role of Assistant Commissioner in 2015. Over his three decade career, Steve has held a diverse range of regional and state level roles, gaining extensive expertise in emergency and crisis management, both within Australia and internationally. Steve has a strong interest in leadership development and building organisational capability.
Steve was the Assistant Commissioner, South Western Region for more than three years before leading QFES People (now known as the People and Culture Directorate) for a similar period. Steve has also acted in all Deputy Commissioner roles, within the former QFES, including extended tenures as Deputy Commissioner of the former Capability and State Services Division and Deputy Commissioner of the then Fire and Rescue Service.
In 2011, Steve was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) for distinguished service and success in technical rescue with outstanding commitment and drive in enhancing the profile and capability of the Queensland Urban Search and Rescue Taskforce.
Steve holds an Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA), a Master of Leadership and Management and is a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is particularly passionate about organisational change, leadership influence and understanding the human factors that shape organisational behaviour.