Fire Risk Rises in Western, South Australia, Victoria
The Albanese Government is urging Australians in remote parts of Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria to be aware of an increased risk of fire this Spring and to remain vigilant and be prepared.
The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring 2025, released by the Australasian Fire and Authorities Council (AFAC) today, provides information to assist fire authorities to make strategic resource and planning decisions prior to the fire season.
For the Spring outlook period (August to November), increased fire risk has been identified for the Dampier Peninsula, Derby Coast, the Central Kimberley, as well as across the south-eastern Pilbara and Little Sandy Desert areas in Western Australia.
There is a median range fire risk in South Australia’s south-eastern agricultural areas with deep soil moisture still broadly below average, and parts of drought-affected areas across the south-west, west and central areas of Victoria, as well as south-west Gippsland, have also been identified.
While other parts of Australia show normal risk of fire during this period, communities are encouraged to remain vigilant and alert. Dangerous and deadly fires can still occur during average and below-average seasons.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is preparing and stands ready to support states, territories and communities impacted by natural hazards through Spring.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said it’s vital that communities prepare ahead of the High-Risk Weather Season.
“As we approach the end of the year, we know that there is always going to be an increased risk of severe weather, including bushfires.
“While we’re seeing an ease in fire risk compared to this time last year, it’s still important that communities start thinking about their emergency planning and preparedness while they can.
“There are many things you can do to prepare. Things like establishing a family emergency plan or cleaning up around your home are things that can help in a fire, storm or cyclone.
“Each season brings something to some part of our country, and the government has been working year-round to make we’re as prepared as possible to support our state and territory counterparts at the federal level.”
NEMA will be hosting the National Preparedness Summit in Canberra on 16‑17 September, where participants will be briefed by the Bureau of Meteorology on the Long-Range Forecast and NEMA’s capabilities and support during the high risk weather season.
The Albanese Government remains committed to supporting disaster preparedness, prevention and mitigation. Preparedness activities undertaken at the national level since the last high risk weather season have included:
https://minister.homeaffairs.gov.au/KristyMcBain/Pages/spring-outlook-shows-increased-fire-risk-wa-sa-vic.aspx