Thank a First Responder Day: Honouring those who help when it matters most

Each year, Thank a First Responder Day gives us a moment to pause and recognise the people who step forward in times of crisis. Paramedics, police officers, firefighters, and emergency service workers are often the first on the scene when something goes wrong, and their actions can make an enormous difference.

For many of our clients, a first responder is one of the very first people they encounter after an accident or traumatic event. Their presence often marks the beginning of a journey no one expected to be on.

The role first responders play in our clients’ lives

In personal injury and compensation matters, first responders are frequently there in the immediate aftermath of workplace incidents, motor vehicle accidents, and other unexpected emergencies.

But their role goes beyond urgent medical care or safety intervention. For many people, first responders also provide:

• calm and reassurance in moments of shock and distress
• critical early decisions that can influence recovery and long-term outcomes
• clear communication and documentation, which can become important later during investigations or claims

Clients often remember small but meaningful details, such as a steady voice, clear instructions, or someone taking the time to explain what was happening when everything felt overwhelming.

Those early moments matter, and first responders help bring order, safety, and care to situations that can feel frightening and uncertain.

A backbone of our community

Beyond individual incidents, first responders play a vital role in keeping communities safe and resilient. They work in high-pressure environments, often facing unpredictable and challenging conditions, with a strong commitment to protecting others.

Their contribution extends far beyond emergencies. First responders help by:

•  supporting public safety and community wellbeing
• responding to natural disasters and large-scale incidents
• providing education and preventative services
• being visible and trusted members of the community

In regional and remote areas in particular, their presence can be life‑changing, bridging distance so that people can access urgent help when they need it most.

Honouring service beyond the frontline: Simon Lund

Thank a First Responder Day is also a time to recognise the many people who support emergency response behind the scenes, and the risks they can face in doing so.

Simon Lund was a dedicated employee of the Country Fire Authority (CFA) for more than 20 years. As a Senior Technical Field Officer, he played a critical role supporting emergency responses during some of Victoria’s most devastating events, including Black Saturday, Black Summer, and the Hazelwood Mine fire.

Simon wasn’t always on the frontline, but he was often right alongside it, setting up incident control centres, working long hours in hazardous smoke‑filled environments, and supporting firefighters as they protected communities.

In 2024, Simon was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer, a disease linked to exposure to toxic substances. Despite expert medical opinion that his illness was likely connected to his work, Simon initially faced significant barriers accessing compensation, because his role wasn’t recognised under existing presumptive legislation.

With his health rapidly deteriorating, Simon and his family turned to Maurice Blackburn for support. We were able to help have his claim accepted, but the burden of proof and the fight for recognition took a heavy toll during an already devastating time.

Simon passed away in May 2025, aged 56. He is remembered not only for his service but for the legacy he leaves behind, highlighting the need to protect all emergency workers, including technical and support staff, whose contributions are essential but too often overlooked.

Read more about Simon’s story and the call for better protections for emergency workers.

Our thanks

Thank a First Responder Day is about recognition, but it’s also about gratitude.

To all first responders: thank you.

Thank you for the long shifts, the difficult calls, the resilience you show, and the compassion you bring to situations that are often incredibly hard for others.

You play an important role in our clients’ stories and in the strength of our communities.

A simple way to say thank you

Today, or any day, a simple “thank you” can go a long way when you see a first responder. A kind word, a moment of acknowledgment, or even shouting them a coffee can remind them that their work is seen and valued.

Standing up for those who serve

If you or someone you care about has been injured or become ill because of their work, including emergency service or support roles, you don’t have to navigate what comes next alone.

Our team is here to listen, offer clear guidance and help you understand your options. Contact Maurice Blackburn for confidential advice and support.