Thetrust deed governing the RFS fund dictates that its trustees should use any income for"purchasing and maintaining fire-fighting equipment and facilities",providing training and resources to the brigade,and covering administrative expenses.
In a statement on Thursday,a spokesperson for the RFS confirmed the organisation would seek directions from the Supreme Court on its ability to distribute the funds more widely.
The RFS was"incredibly grateful for the efforts of Celeste Barber and her record-breaking online fundraising campaign"and it was"working with Celeste’s team to identify options for how the funds can be distributed".
"What has become clear is that the issue is very complex and the options are limited. This is because there are a number of laws which limit how funds can be distributed,"the spokesperson said.
"At this stage,it’s planned to seek the direction of the Supreme Court to seek some clarity on how the funds can be used. This is likely to take some time.
"Importantly,the NSW RFS and Celeste’s team want to make it clear – there is no stoush and everyone is working hard to find a solution."
In a video posted on Instagram on Wednesday,Ms Barber said"my team have been in contact ... with the RFS"about the funds raised and"we're onto it".