Peer Support Officers (PSOs) are an integral part of the Fire and Emergency Services Support Network (FESSN).  PSOs are staff and volunteers who, in a voluntary capacity, are trained to assist and support their colleagues through challenging times.

PSOs work in conjunction with FESSN, Regional Supervision Counsellors and fellow PSOs to provide confidential, informal short-term assistance, support or guidance. If needed, this can include referrals to appropriate community resources or other specialist services.

Located in all regions throughout Queensland and based in a range of positions, ranks and roles, PSOs are carefully selected on the basis of trust, integrity and a demonstrated interest in the health and well-being of their fellow workers.

The position of PSO has no operational authority or status, other than what is permitted as a part of the PSOs normal duties. The PSO role operates under local supervision by a professional independent Counsellor, the Regional Supervision Counsellor, however, are accountable to FESSN Management Team who have state oversight of FESSN services.

To initiate an email request to locate your local Peer Support Officer, click here.
(You will receive an auto response within a couple of minutes)

Who can contact a PSO?

Our workforce, this includes:

  • Staff (operational and public service)
  • Volunteers

When should I seek help from a PSO?

You should seek help when:

  • the way you feel is getting in the way of living the life you would like to lead
  • an increase in your alcohol, tobacco and other drug use
  • decline in the quality of your relationships
  • an unwelcome change of behaviour that has negative consequences for you.

Are conversations with a PSO confidential?

All Peer Support Officers adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines.

Personal information may only be revealed under the following circumstances:

  • a legal requirement to disclose information
  • failure to disclose information would place the client or another person at risk of harm
  • the individual's written consent has been obtained to release the information to another person or agency
  • Peer Support Officer attends confidential supervision sessions with the Regional Supervision Counsellor.

What is the role of a PSO?

Peer Support Officers (PSOs) provide:

  • individual support
  • assistance with group support sessions following a critical incident
  • referrals to appropriate community resources or other specialist services, e.g. counselling and psychology services.

Peer Support Officers are good listeners who can help to explore areas of concern or offer practical support, linking in with FESSNs counselling and psychology services. It is important to note that Peer Support Officers are not Counsellors or Psychologists, nor are they advocates or representatives for workforce conduct and management issues. 

Do PSOs support critical incidents?

Peer Support Officers (PSOs) are often involved in supporting critical incidents, when operational demands are unusually high, or an event occurs which has potential for high emotional, and/or traumatic impact.

In these situations PSOs may:

  • work with leaders to evaluate the need for supporting Critical Incident Response & Management (CIRM) intervention
  • assist in the provision of individual or group support sessions to help reduce the initial stress of an incident and promote healthy coping strategies
  • liaise closely with professional Counsellors to arrange further support assistance.

What do I need to become a PSO?

Mandatory Requirements

  • Minimum two years' experience with us
  • Must be an active employee or volunteer with us
  • Adhere to strict confidentiality requirements, including signing a Statement of Agreement and Code of Ethics agreement, binding PSOs to the guidelines, policies and procedures aligning to our Privacy Policy Statement.

What is the PSO application process like?

Stage 1: Online application

In order to gain a deeper understanding about the role of a PSO, it is recommended to speak with a PSO about their experience prior to commencing the online application. PSO contact information can be found via the PSO contacts list. Click to request the access link.

Online Application

  • If you have been a member for at least two years and are interested in becoming a PSO, you can complete and submit the online application.
  • Nomination of three referees, including a direct supervisor and two active colleagues.
  • Upon receipt of the online application, FESSN will review the application, including contacting referees.
  • It is important to note that completion of the online application does not automatically result in selection to attend the PSO training course. 

Stage 2: Interview

  • The second stage of the selection process includes an interview and successful completion of an ethics screening followed by regional endorsement.
  • The interview will be facilitated by the Regional Supervision Counsellor in your aligning area, notifying you of when and where the interview will take place. For remote locations, telephone interviews will be arranged.
  • Post interview, all applicants are notified of the outcome of their application. Due to the complexity of the selection process, the FESSN Management Team may not be able to provide individual feedback to each applicant.
  • Acceptance and compliance with the standards and expectations as outlined in the PSO Guidelines, Code of Ethics and PSO Statement of Agreement.
  • If you have successfully completed stage 2 of the selection process, you will be invited to attend the 5 ½ day PSO training course (stage 3).

Stage 3: Foundation training and assessment course

The Foundation training and assessment course is a residential course, facilitated over 5 ½ days.

The course builds upon the personal qualities, skills and abilities of the individual with the inclusion of advanced training on topics including:

  • interpersonal communication
  • mental health and well-being
  • supporting our staff in managing well-being

Stage 4: Probation and endorsement

  • New PSO appointments are required to complete a minimum 6 month probationary period. PSOs will be monitored and mentored by the Regional Supervision Counsellor and FESSNs Management team.
  • A review interview will be conducted by the Regional Supervision Counsellor at the conclusion of the probation period.

Stage 5: Becoming an active Peer Support Officer

  • In order to be endorsed as a PSO, competency at each stage must be achieved.
  • As an active PSO you will be listed on the PSO contact list and be available for peer support duties.
  • Regular performance reviews are conducted by the Regional Supervision Counsellor to ensure ongoing suitability, usually every 3 years.

Helpful resources

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