Fiji's Opposition calls for military reservists to train as firefighters

Fiji's Opposition leader has called for the country's military reservists to be trained as firefighters to help combat the Australian bushfires.

Sitiveni Rabuka said Fiji should expedite and deliver an offer of "practical assistance" to Australia to help fight the deadly fires plaguing the nation.

The government had been slow to help and has suggested the National Fire Authority could start training military reserves under the age of 35 to provide relief for Australian firefighters.

Mr Rabuka said the national airline Fiji Airways could transport personnel and the government could fund allowances as a national contribution to aid Australia.