DFES Education and Heritage Centre

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Education and Heritage Centre is located in the original Perth Central Fire Station. The building was commissioned under the authority of the Western Australian Fire Brigades Act of 1899 and was the first purpose built fire station in Western Australia.

Now refurbished, the old station characterises both past and present emergency services’ through displays dedicated to the history of Western Australian (WA) fire services and a natural hazards and disasters education gallery.

Today the centre showcases a heritage trail offering a history of each room, vintage fire service appliances and exhibition space featuring the history and stories about fire brigades, hazards and emergency responses.

DFES invites visitors to explore the building’s unique heritage and learn about WA’s natural hazards.

Welcoming over 18, 000 visitors a year the centre houses a large archive of emergency services’ historic documents and photographs and a display of vintage fire appliances (engines).

The centre is open to the public and offers an interactive, interesting and fun experience for schools, tourists, families and community groups. Tours, open days, holiday activities and curriculum-linked education programs are available free of charge.