Media Release | 26 February 2026
Hon. Rob Horstman MLC
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, Rob Horstman MLC, has called on the Cook Labor Government to pull its finger out and break its pointless pay impasse with West Australian Firefighters.
Mr Horstman says by allowing this issue to reach a stalemate, firefighters are being put under unnecessary pressure and entire communities are being put at risk.
“This is a small cohort of people who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. Despite that, the Government has the audacity to reject a paltry $2 per hour pay rise.
“The WA Industrial Relations Commission is ordering the pay increase. The Government needs to stop playing Scrooge and support our firefighters as an essential and much admired emergency service.”
Mr Horstman says the impasse has now dragged on for almost a year and firefighters and communities deserve a better deal.
“This Government doesn’t shy away from spending millions of dollars on shiny things like racetracks and movie studios, but they duck and dive when it comes to stumping up some cash for our vital services.
“It is a particular insult that this is taking place in the height of fire season when firefighters should be focusing on the job at hand.”
Mr Horstman says Firefighters are legitimately concerned about staffing levels, workplace risks, and long-term recruitment and retention.
He says experienced firefighters are leaving the service for alternative public sector roles offering higher pay and less risks.
“Whilst firefighters continue to face exposure to carcinogens, significant physical and mental health risks, intensive shift demands, and high‑pressure environments, this Cook Labor Government has refused to negotiate in good faith with the union.”
Mr Horstman says the Nationals WA are committed to a stable and supported emergency services workforce which allows our firefighters to be looked after and our communities to stay safe.
“Enough is enough. This issue has reached a crisis level, so the Industrial Relations Commission needs to break the stalemate and restore certainty.
“Firefighters are tired and frustrated. Ensuring they have the right conditions, support, and recognition is not just a workplace issue — it is a matter of public safety. Western Australians deserve a frontline emergency service that is fully staffed, well‑trained, and resilient.
“Achieving that stability requires the Government to resolve this dispute with urgency”
ENDS
