• 
• New South Wales Government
• 
• 

• Home
• Incidents
• Recruitment
  • Permanent Firefighters
  • Retained Firefighters
    • What is a Retained Firefighter?
    • Being a retained firefighter
    • Recruitment process
      • How do I apply?
      • Interview techniques
      • Physical Aptitude Test (PAT)
      • Medical Requirements
    • Vacancies search
    • Pay rates
    • Training
  • Administrative & trades
  • Enquiries
• Home Fire Safety
• For Schools
• For Business
• For Community
• Our Partners
• Research
• About us

1. Home
2. Recruitment
3. Retained Firefighters
4. Recruitment process
5. Physical Aptitude Test (PAT)
6. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions

1. Why have a Physical Aptitude Test?
2. How should I prepare for the Physical Aptitude Test?
3. Where can I get a copy of the Shuttle Run Assessment?

1. Why have a Physical Aptitude Test?

To determine whether applicants have the minimum physical capacity that could be required of a firefighter in an emergency situation.

2. How should I prepare for the Physical Aptitude Test?

Be specific with your preparation by basing your training on the actual requirements of the Physical Aptitude Test. Applicants who reach this stage will be given an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the tests and equipment to be used.

Don't expect to prepare for your physical aptitude test in a short time frame. Start your training as soon as possible, and progressively increase your workload right up until the time of the test. Keeping a training diary is a good way to monitor your progress. Always remember that if you stop training you will lose the fitness that you have gained. Make sure you seek medical clearance before starting your exercise program.

If you don't know how to train, get help. Preferably seek assistance from a person with a degree in Sport Science or Human Movement. If you can't find someone, contact the Australian Association of Exercise and Sport Science and ask them to recommend a trainer/coach.

3. Where can I get a copy of the Shuttle Run Assessment?

It is strongly recommended that you obtain a copy of the Shuttle Run Assessment (tape/CD) from:

Australian Coaching Council
PO Box 176
Belconnen ACT 2616
Phone (02) 6252 1550

Or order it on-line from the Australian Sports Commission

If you are unable to obtain a copy of the Shuttle Run Assessment, you can test your progress using other fitness tests. For example, the Shuttle Run standard of Level 9 Shuttle 6 is roughly equivalent to being able to run a distance of 2.4 km in a time less than 11 minutes (2.4 Kilometre Run Test; modified from Cooper 1978).

Please note: This information is current, but may be reviewed at any time.