The emergency services workforce is ageing. Younger members are stepping up and taking on new challenges in their careers and volunteering activities.

What are the key issues affecting young members of our industry? How have sessions at the conference inspired thinking and a way forward for the younger members of the industry? Where do they see the challenges for agencies into the future?

Together four panelists will explore and reflect on the conference proceedings, discussing issues affecting the next generation of emergency management workers, volunteers and researchers.

Major challenges for the industry in the future will be discussed, with a focus on culture, communication and interoperability. Panelists will consider the need to communicate academic research better to assist industry practice; improve interoperability and inter-agency communication to deliver better outcomes and build safer communities; and what culture and diversity looks like from a youth perspective. The panel will also reflect on issues that are most relevant to them in their practice.