Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
Emma Conway’s outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment to community safety, and tireless advocacy for CFA volunteers and women in emergency management make her a highly deserving recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal.
Over a distinguished 21-year career with CFA, Emma has served with dedication as both a volunteer and career firefighter. She joined CFA as a Junior in 1991 and volunteered with the Wangaratta and Somerville brigades before joining the career ranks in 2007, serving as a firefighter in Mildura, Morwell, Rowville and Traralgon.
Emma’s ability to support and lead people saw her move up the ranks at both CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), where she held operational leadership roles including Commander and Assistant Chief Fire Officer. During this time, she drove operational improvements and helped to build strong, trusted relationships with emergency service partners, local government and the Victorian community. She also returned to CFA as a volunteer, joining the District 9 Headquarters Brigade.
“Service has always been central to my family – it never occurred to me not to serve the community,” Emma said.
“Dad joined CFA when I was eight, and I grew up following him around – it was a huge buzz to go with him to community and brigade events.
“Joining as a Junior was about belonging: being at the station, cleaning the trucks, being part of the team.
“What I remember most is the sense of connection, seeing community in action.”
Emma’s operational leadership has been evident during some of Victoria’s most significant emergencies including the 2019-20 fires, severe storm events and numerous Gippsland bushfires. Throughout these complex, high-pressure incidents, Emma has led incident management teams with calm authority, while maintaining strong, respectful connections with local brigades and affected communities.
“Out of all the incidents, the Black Summer fires have had the most significant impact on me,” Emma said.
“Working as one of the Deputy Incident Controllers at the Swifts Creek Incident Control Centre showed me what sustained support really looks like and helped me grow my own capability.
“Seeing people I’d worked with throughout my career, integrating my district’s volunteer brigade members into the incident, and becoming part of the FFMVic team – there’s something incredibly special about working together in an incident management capacity where every member is critical. It doesn’t matter how tired you are, or how challenging the days get, you see each other through it.”
Emma’s career is defined not only by her operational expertise, but by her commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive CFA. A passionate advocate for volunteer development and recognition, she works to ensure volunteers are supported, capable and heard.
Through initiatives that strengthen brigade capability, foster leadership at all levels and address barriers to participation, Emma has made a lasting contribution to community safety. She has also been a trailblazer for women within CFA and across the broader emergency management sector, and is a respected role model and mentor who actively encourages women to pursue leadership roles.
“Helping people recognise that they have capacity and agency of their own is incredibly rewarding,” Emma said.
“Many women in firefighting only realise what they’re capable of once they’re given the opportunity.
“Diversity isn’t just about gender – it’s diversity of thought, background, education and experience. It’s about helping people understand that their experience is just as valid as anyone elses; that their input matters.”
Emma has recently taken on the role of Deputy Director of Operations at AFAC, remaining intrinsically linked to fire and emergency services through her responsibility for international and interstate resource sharing. She remains a CFA volunteer with District 9 Headquarters Brigade, with a focus on supporting incident management.
With many awards and honours under her belt including two National Emergency Medals and the National Medal Emma exemplifies the highest standards of service, integrity and leadership, making her a most worthy recipient of the AFSM.
“I was in Germany for a workshop when I got the email saying I was nominated for an AFSM – I got quite overwhelmed,” Emma said.
“Working as a CFA staff member has been a huge part of my life, and I’m grateful to all the people who have helped shape that experience.
“Even now, I feel deeply connected – being a leader within CFA has always been a privilege.”
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