There are 36,000 volunteer Rural Fire Brigade members forming 1,550 Rural Fire Brigades covering 93% of the State - as indicated on the map.  Rural Fire Brigades operate in areas not covered by an Urban Fire Service.

The character and method of operation of brigades varies considerably across the State. In rural areas, a brigade may simply consist of a group of property owners joining together for their mutual protection against fire, using resources available on their properties. Closer to urbanised areas, brigades are generally characterised by a more formalised operational and administrative structure and operate from a centralised fire station with specialised appliances and equipment.

Brigades have both an operational and an administrative/supportive role, though the degree of activity in or between roles may differ between brigades.  QFRS Rural Operations encourages brigades to actively support the community in all aspects of rural fire management including community rural fire awareness and education.