Firefighter beep test and PAT standards in every Australian state

Every career fire service tests your fitness twice: a shuttle run (beep test) and a physical aptitude test (PAT) built from real firefighting tasks, done in protective gear.

Service	Beep test	Physical test
Fire Rescue Victoria	9.6	11-task PAT: ladders, stair climb with high-rise pack, container haul, chain cutting, hose drags, equipment carry, couplings, crew rescue
Queensland Fire Department	9.6	OFAT: rescue cutter hold, six-station course in a 20 kg vest, 90 m hose reel drag
Fire and Rescue NSW	—	Three-stage PAT in PPE with ankle weights: search and ladder; jerry cans, stairs, tool holds and hose drag; fire attack and rescue
DFES (WA)	8.7	Tunnel crawl in BA, 8-task circuit under 25 minutes, working at heights
SA MFS	9.6	11 tasks within 32 minutes, including a tunnel crawl and tower climb

How to train

• Build your aerobic base first. Level 9.6 needs genuine running fitness. Most applicants need 8–12 weeks of structured running.
• Train for loaded work. Stair climbs, carries and drags with a weighted vest or backpack are closer to the PAT than gym machines.
• Grip and shoulders. Tool holds, hose drags and ladder work all fail at the grip first.
• Practise technique. Several services fail you for poor technique, dropping equipment or running.

Checked against official sources in October 2026. Each service updates its tests, so confirm on your state's page before you train.