Practical, evidence-based education for the person behind the uniform
Supporting the lives of life supporters
At Responders First Australia, we get it.
We're glad you're hereYou love the job, the adrenaline, the camaraderie, the sense of purpose. But the very qualities that help you do the job well can also make life outside the job harder.
Hypervigilance.
Emotional control.
Always putting others first.
They're strengths on shift.
They can become challenges at home.
Responders First Australia exists to help you build a long, healthy and meaningful career, without losing yourself along the way.
Education and skills for every stage of your career •
Wherever you are in your first responder journey, there’s a program that’s right for you •
Education and skills for every stage of your career • Wherever you are in your first responder journey, there’s a program that’s right for you •
Foundations Course
FOR THE EARLY-CAREER RESPONDER
Start your career with the knowledge most first responders never receive. Understand trauma, reduce stigma, build healthy habits and develop the skills that will help protect both your career and the person behind the uniform.
Advanced Course
FOR THE EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL
The longer you do the job, the more important recovery becomes. Deepen your understanding of trauma, strengthen emotional wellbeing and learn practical skills to help you stay effective, both on and off duty.
Transition Course
FOR THE FIRST RESPONDER PREPARING FOR WHAT’S NEXT
The uniform comes off. Your life doesn't. Navigate the transition from operational service with confidence, purpose and a renewed sense of identity beyond the job.
Training & Workshops
PRACTICAL, EVIDENCE-INFORMED TRAINING FOR TRAUMA-EXPOSED WORKPLACES
Responders First Australia provides in-person training, workshops and presentations for organisations whose people are exposed to trauma through their work.
About
Founded by Clinical Psychologist, Monica Heafey, Responders First Australia has been created with a deep understanding of the challenges first responders face.
After more than a decade working alongside first responders, Monica noticed the same pattern again and again.
People were exceptionally well trained to protect the public.
Very few had been taught how to protect themselves.
Responders First Australia was created to change that.
Monica's clinical background shapes the evidence behind our courses — but Responders First Australia is an education provider, not a clinical service. Enrolling in a course doesn't create a psychologist–client relationship, and it isn't a substitute for individual treatment.
Our Mission is Simple
Our mission is to help first responders protect the person behind the uniform, so they can continue serving others and living with courage, competence and humanity.