Recruitment process
Written selection test
The Written Selection Test (WST) is designed to assess a candidate’s suitability to undertake the academic content of the recruit firefighter course, in addition to a candidate’s ability to deal with the subsequent demands of the job.
The tests comprise of a number of elements including Literacy (Reading), Numeracy, Abstract Reasoning and Mechanical Reasoning, which measure general abilities such as problem solving, critical thinking, deduction and logical reasoning.
The WST was developed and is administered by an external provider. The cost to undertake the WST is $238.00 (GST inclusive).
Payment is not required when completing the initial online application, however, once Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) applications have closed, candidates will be contacted via email to register for the WST and make payment to the WST administrator.
The application fee is paid directly to the WST administrator. FRV does not receive any of this fee/payment.
The WST will be available during an allocated period in multiple venues across Victoria and selected states.
Candidates who hold a current/ valid Centrelink Health Care Card (HCC) will not be required to pay for the WST. To be eligible for the payment exemption, candidates will be required to upload a copy of their current/ valid HCC when they submit their application via FRV’s Career Portal. This exemption may be reviewed prior to the commencement of future recruitment campaigns.
The computer-based WST is in multiple-choice format, and comprises the following core subjects:
- Abstract Reasoning - measures a candidate’s ability to identify and complete sequences and patterns
- Numeracy - measures a candidate’s ability in addition, subtraction, division, percentages, algebra and multiplication
- Literacy - measures how well a candidate understands and interprets written passages
- Mechanical Reasoning - measures a candidate’s ability to understand basic functioning of mechanical devices
To be selected to progress to the next stage of the selection process, candidates must successfully pass all four sub-tests of the WST and only the highest-ranking candidates will progress to the Group Assessment stage of the selection process.
Should a candidate require any adjustments to be able to fully participate in the recruitment and selection process, we encourage them to contact ffrecruitment@frv.vic.gov.au .
Preparation
The following information is provided to assist in preparing for the above subjects and should be used as a guide only.
Exam technique
As all of the subjects are timed, it is important to allocate sufficient time to each question to ensure that the maximum number of questions are answered.
The skills assessed by the WSTs are learned over time through different types of experiences; the best preparation is to read widely and think critically. Please note, candidates are not permitted to bring or use their own calculator. An in-built calculator is provided in the WST for use when required.
In addition, there are a number of websites and books relating to career selection tests, which provide practice items and hints on how to better prepare and improve your exam technique.
Practice material can help candidates become more familiar with the multiple-choice format of the questions on the WSTs.
Practice material will be available in 2026
Important information regarding the WST
The WST stage of the FRV recruit firefighter selection process will be facilitated by an external provider.