Female firefighters slam changes to MFB recruitment process

Female firefighters have blasted changes to the recruitment process aimed at making it easier for more women to join the brigade.

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade is overhauling its selection process for new recruits after a government report raised concerns about a lack of diversity.

Fewer than four per cent of the brigade are female.

Some of the changes include removing score-based selections, in favour of recruiting new members on merit.

However, several female firies have flagged their concerns with The Age, with the union also unhappy.

While they want greater diversity, it’s feared the changes will put safety at risk. 

But emergency services minister Jane Garrett is playing down the concerns.

The MFB begins its first proactive recruitment campaign in 10 years on Monday.