The State Emergency Service (SES) is the name used by a number of separate civil defence organisations in Australia that provide assistance during and after major incidents.

Eight of the SES organisations co-ordinate through the Australian Council of State and Territory Emergency Services (ACSES).

During World War II the National Emergency Service was created on 1 February 1939 to provide air raid wardens.

Depending on the needs of the local community, a Unit may perform only some or all of these roles: In addition to funds provided through legislation to the SES by state and local governments, SES groups also supplement their financial resources with donations made by individuals and businesses, and through other government grants.

These donations typically contribute to purchasing or maintaining group equipment, such as vehicles and tools, or to improvement of SES property and facilities.