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The Hawkesbury Gazette has received anonymous complaints from Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers who say they have been locked out of the RFS Active App following a recent update leaving them unable to access incident information and alerts as the fire season hots up.
The volunteers, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of disciplinary action, say the App’s latest update no longer functions on older iPhone models such as the iPhone 5 and 6. The issue has arisen a month into the official fire season, raising concerns about timing, communication, and the impact on frontline operations.
They told the Gazette they were frustrated and worried about being unable to receive real-time updates from the RFS Active App, which is a key tool for accessing incident details, alerts, and operational information.
“We rely on the app to know what’s going on, where fires are, who’s responding, and when we’re needed,” said one volunteer. “Now, because my phone is a few years old, I can’t even open it. Not everyone can afford to go and buy a new phone right now.”
Volunteers also expressed concern that the update came during a cost-of-living crisis that has already placed pressure on households.
“A lot of us are older members,” another volunteer said. “We stick with the phones we know how to use. It’s not that we don’t want to upgrade we just don’t see the need to spend money on a new phone until something like this happens.”
RFS Responds
In response to questions from the Gazette, an RFS spokesperson said the change was the result of Apple’s evolving software requirements, not a decision made by the RFS itself.
“Apple regularly updates its iOS operating systems to enhance performance, security, and user experience. As these updates progress, some older iPhone models are unable to upgrade to the latest supported versions of iOS,” the spokesperson said.
“To ensure Activ remains compliant with Apple’s requirements and current security standards, the RFS must continue updating the application to align with the latest iOS versions. As a result, iPhone 5 and iPhone 6 devices may no longer be compatible with the most recent versions of Activ.”
The RFS emphasised that there are “multiple alternative systems” for members to receive incident information and alerts, including SMS messages, automated phone calls, and paging networks.
“The RFS remains committed to supporting devices for the longest period technically possible, while also ensuring that our applications remain secure, reliable, and capable of delivering new features requested by members,” the spokesperson added.
Concerns About Timing and Communication
The Gazette asked the RFS why the update was rolled out during the fire season, rather than before it began, when any compatibility issues could have been identified and resolved with less operational risk. At the time of publication, the RFS has not directly addressed this question.
For many volunteers, the issue highlights the growing digital divide within the service. While the RFS Active App has been praised for improving communication and situational awareness, its reliance on newer technology risks leaving behind members who may not have the means or technical know-how to keep pace with rapid software changes.
As one volunteer put it, “We’re out there giving our time for free, helping protect our communities. It’s disheartening to think that because of an old phone, some people could be left out of the loop.”
