The NSW government will expand the list of cancers presumed to be covered for firefighters under its workers’ compensation scheme.

Ten more cancers will qualify, providing quicker access to support and treatment.

They are primary site lung, pancreatic, thyroid and skin cancers, plus reproductive cancers including cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, vulval and penile.  

The scheme already covers 12 cancers including leukaemia, brain, bladder and kidney. 

Claimants must be employed by the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the NSW Forestry Corporation or other state agencies, and have completed a qualifying service period.   

An expert panel will review volunteer firefighters’ claims for the added cancers.  

NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said: “Firefighters work in difficult conditions protecting the community and this reform provides recognition by delivering on our commitment to support front-line workers.” 

Fire Brigade Employees Union secretary Leighton Drury says it is vital to recognise the risks members face and that “professional firefighters have worked hard for this result”.