When emergency strikes in a remote community, every second counts, and so does having someone nearby with the skills to help. That’s why we are excited to continue our partnership with NSW Rural Women’s Network to deliver fully funded, nationally accredited First Aid and Mental Health crisis support training to women across regional and remote NSW in 2026.

For women living in rural and remote areas of NSW, accessing the same resources and training opportunities available in major cities can be a significant challenge. Simple resources that city residents take for granted, like regular first aid courses or mental health training, are often harder to come by in regional communities.

The Rural Women’s Network, a NSW Government initiative, was established to address exactly this kind of disparity. By hosting events and initiatives across regional, rural and remote NSW, the network creates opportunities for women and girls to gain new skills, share experiences, and build lasting relationships that strengthen their communities.

The overwhelming response to last year’s Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow demonstrates just how vital this program is for our regional communities. This investment reflects our commitment to supporting regional women with practical skills that strengthen both individuals and their communities.

First Aid training equips participants with invaluable skills to respond effectively in emergencies, recognise mental health issues and crisis situations, and provide appropriate interventions.

A foundational aspect of the workshops is how they build confidence and capability while creating resilience in our regions. More education means more control and more resilience for women and their families.

Each participant receives a nationally recognised accredited certification upon completion of the training, credentials that can make a real difference in emergency situations and even enhance employment opportunities.

Building on the success of 2025, the free training will be offered in eight new locations across regional and remote NSW in 2026. By expanding to these new towns across NSW, we’re ensuring more rural women have access to critical First Aid and Mental Health training that could save lives.

The 2026 Phase 1 locations include:

• Scone
• Glen Innes
• Narrabri
• Gilgandra
• Wentworth
• Griffith
• Young
• Bourke

Find out more about this initiative: Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow 2026 | NSW Government