Rural fire brigades use a wide range of appliances, equipment and techniques to carry out their duties. An overriding consideration at all times is that all equipment must be safe to use and must be used in a safe manner.

RFS provides a wide range of fire-fighting, safety and communications equipment either free of charge or at greatly subsidised prices. The cost of freighting the equipment to the brigade is also met by RFS.  Supply of equipment to brigades is managed and administered by Logistics Services, Emergency Services Complex, Kedron.

The financial ability of RFS to provide free or subsidised equipment and appliances is therefore limited by the funds available in the RFS budget.  RFS District Inspectors and other senior staff manage the budget to ensure that an equitable distribution of this equipment is available to all Classes of brigades, in all parts of the State, each year.  Risk management profiles assist in determining the appropriate levels of equipment.