Celebrating first responders: A look at Fortem’s Thank a First Responder Day 2026
Thank a First Responder Day (TAFRD) is just over 2 months away! On Wednesday 10 June 2026, communities across Australia will come together to recognise and thank the people who keep us safe.
Created by Fortem Australia, the day highlights the contribution of more than 300,000 paid and volunteer first responders, while also recognising the important role their families play in supporting them.
This year, there are more ways than ever for families and communities across Australia to recognise first responders and show their appreciation.
How Fortem is celebrating across Australia
Young Voices Art Showcase
This is the first year of our creative initiative inviting young people to express their gratitude to first responders through art. Children and young people across Australia are sharing their appreciation through artwork celebrating first responders and their families.
If you have children, encourage them to create an artwork and share the opportunity with their school, childcare centre. Print the Art Showcase poster and place it on a noticeboard to share with your workplace and colleagues.
Download the poster to share here: Young Voices Art Showcase poster – Fortem Australia
Find out more or submit an artwork: Young Voices Art Showcase – Fortem Australia
Recognising exceptional first responders
Do you know a first responder who has gone above and beyond for their community? As part of the campaign, people across Australia are invited to share short stories and messages recognising exceptional first responders and the difference they have made.
You can submit a story or message of recognition here: Recognise a first responder – Fortem Australia
Invite your school or childcare centre
More than 370 schools are already taking part in Thank a First Responder Day by hosting dress up days, assemblies, classroom activities, or visits from local first responders.
If your child’s school or childcare centre would like to take part, invite them to register and join the growing number of schools recognising first responders.
Schools can join here: Register – Fortem Australia
Children’s book – Remember: Triple Zero Heroes by J. E. Miller
This year we are proud to partner with Hawkeye Publishing and author J. E. Miller to bring you the inspiring children’s storybook Remember: Triple Zero Heroes.
To celebrate, we were delighted to gift copies of the book to the first schools, libraries and early learning centres who registered to take part in Thank a First Responder Day. The response was incredible – and those copies were snapped up almost immediately!
Due to popular demand, we’re thrilled to now offer you the opportunity to purchase your own copy. A percentage of every book sold will be donated to Fortem to support the wellbeing of first responders and their families.
To celebrate Thank a First Responder Day, we’re excited to offer an exclusive opportunity for schools to take part in virtual storytelling workshops with award-winning author J. E. Miller. Designed to inspire creativity and confidence, these engaging sessions encourage students to explore storytelling while recognising the heroes in our communities.
This exclusive offer provides a 10% discount off your fee and 50% of your donation will be donated to Fortem Australia to support first responders and their families.
Purchase your copy of the book here: Remember: Triple Zero Heroes – Fortem Australia
Enquire about a workshop with J. E. Miller: Shop Thank a First Responder Day – Fortem Australia
Encouraging local businesses to show support
Local businesses play an important role in showing appreciation for first responders. Many take part by displaying posters, running small fundraisers, shouting coffee for local crews, or organising gestures of appreciation for local stations.
If you know a local café, shop, or workplace that supports first responders, encourage them to get involved by displaying a poster or supporting a small gesture of appreciation.
Download the Buy a Brew poster here: Buy a brew and say thank you poster – Fortem Australia
Monuments lighting up in teal
On the evening of 9 June, landmarks across Australia will light up in teal as a visible tribute to first responders and their families.
If you see a monument lighting up in your area, take a photo and share it with friends or online using #TAFRD to show that your community’s gratitude is being heard. A growing list of the monuments and landmarks taking part is here: link to monuments
Gyms and fitness communities getting involved
Gyms and fitness communities are also supporting the day through special classes, gold coin workouts, and messages of appreciation for first responders who train there.
If you are part of a gym or fitness community, consider inviting them to take part.
A ready made poster is available here: Gym and fitness initiative poster – Fortem Australia
Celebrating with Fortem events
Fortem will be hosting a range of community celebrations and activities in the lead up to Thank a First Responder Day.
Keep an eye out for events happening in your area and come along with your family if you can.
Whether this is your first Thank a First Responder Day or you have been part of it before, we hope our first responders feel the appreciation behind every activity, message, and moment shared.
TAFRD event calendar: Events – Fortem Australia
This day exists so first responders and their families can see, feel, and experience the gratitude of the communities they serve.
If you or your community have any questions or would like to get involved, please contact us at thankafirstresponder@fortemaustralia.org.au