Suncorp has donated $20,000 to strengthen the bushfire-fighting resources of emergency crews in NSW and Queensland.

The funds will be invested in better communications equipment, crew welfare and training program.

Suncorp Insurance CEO Gary Dransfield says the move underscores the insurer’s commitment to help at-risk communities and improve resilience against the hazard.

“The communities impacted by the recent bushfires continue to demonstrate resilience and strength as they recover,” Mr Dransfield said. “We are proud to support the communities impacted by these devastating events, and are thankful for the responders who work on the frontline.”

Parts of NSW and Queensland have seen a range of bushfire outbreaks in the past few months as hot and dry conditions continue across much of eastern Australia.

The Insurance Council of Australia has already declared two bushfire catastrophes – one in the Rappville area in northern NSW this month and the other last month in northern NSW and south-east Queensland combined.

The Queensland Rural Fire and Emergency Services intends to use its allocation of money from Suncorp to buy advanced communications devices for crews to stay connected in remote areas.

“Communicating with our communities when a bushfire is imminent or in active bushfire areas is a challenge,” acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Johnstone said.

“This technology will enable remote crews to communicate out of range of standard phone connections, both between brigades and back to headquarters to then notify communities.”

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons says the agency plans to put the donation into member welfare and training courses.

“Our highly-trained team work tirelessly to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events such as bushfires,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.

“It will extend the training and education opportunities available to our team and ensure they have the highest capability to respond appropriately, effectively and safely in times of emergency.”