Queensland firefighter recruitment: QFD tests, beep test and OFAT explained

Queensland Fire Department (QFD) recruits firefighters through campaigns that take about 8–10 months from application to the 16-week recruit course.

Eligibility

• A manual C class licence held for at least a year, or a manual medium rigid licence
• Australian or New Zealand citizenship, or permanent residency
• Year 12 or equivalent, and at least two years of full-time-equivalent paid work
• Able to obtain a Working with Children Blue Card

The stages

1. Application
2. Beep test: level 9.6, pass or fail
3. Online cognitive assessments (Pearson VUE)
4. OFAT physical assessment in Brisbane or Townsville
5. State panel interview
6. Psychological assessments
7. Criminal history and referee checks, state selection, medical and pre-course requirements

The cognitive assessments

Three timed tests, taken online with remote supervision: mechanical reasoning, core abilities (problem solving, reasoning and capacity to learn) and written comprehension. Calculators, notes and phones aren't allowed.

The OFAT

The Operational Focused Abilities Test has three pass/fail parts, done in a helmet and gloves. Technique matters and running isn't allowed.

• Rescue cutter hold: hold a hydraulic cutter of about 19 kg at three heights.
• Six-station course in a 20 kg vest: stair climb, forcible entry with a sledgehammer, ladder raise and extension, equipment haul, hose drag and an 85 kg rescue drag.
• Hose reel drag: extend 90 m of hose reel in two 45 m drags.

Pay

From 1 August 2026, QFD lists recruit firefighter pay at $3,017.53 a fortnight, rising to $3,875.73 for a firefighter.

Checked against QFD sources in October 2026. Confirm current details on the QFD recruit firefighter page.