You can have your say On Bushfire Management In ACT
Public consultation is now open for version 5 of the ACT’s Strategic Bushfire Management Plan (SBMP).
The SBMP was introduced in 2004 following the destructive and deadly 2003 Canberra bushfires and is updated every 5 years. The plan outlines how bushfire risk management is conducted in the ACT by government, businesses and the community.
SBMP version 5 aims to further improve bushfire management, adapt to growing challenges such as climate change and look more closely at how emergency services can work with the ACT community and key stakeholders in all aspects of bushfire planning, preparation, response and recovery.
To have your say on the plan visit https://yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/SBMP
Consultation will close on 11 June 2025.
The Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, hopes that residents across the ACT will provide their feedback on the plan.
“Over the past five years, many in our community have directly experienced the devastating effects of bushfires, witnessing firsthand the damage they cause to people, infrastructure, and the environment.
“Mitigating the risks and consequences of bushfires is a collective responsibility shared by government, industry, and the broader community. We welcome your experiences and perspectives as we seek to enhance bushfire management and preparedness into the future.”
Quotes attributable to ACT Rural Fire Service Chief Officer, Rohan Scott:
“In Australia bushfire risk can never be eliminated, but there are steps everyone can take to ensure that when they do occur, the risk and impact are minimised.
“In this plan we hope to outline these steps and help build a resilient and adaptive ACT community and natural environment through proactive and collaborative bushfire management.
“I would like to thank the community for their continuous support in helping us be prepared for bushfires. I look forward to receiving valuable insights and feedback to help shape the plan.”
Quotes attributable to ACT Parks and Conservation Service Senior Director of Fire Management, Nicholas Daines
“The ACT Parks and Conservation Service has a crucial role in bushfire management. Almost 80% of the ACT is covered by National Parks and Reserves, so we have a lot of grasslands, woodlands, forests and other ecologically important ecosystems to protect.
“The ACT Government supports a multifaceted and collaborative approach to managing the risk of bushfires in the ACT, including through prescribed burning, ecological grazing, slashing and mowing, and chemical treatments. It’s important we get community feedback on our strategies so we can be sure we are using the best management practices and keeping our priorities focused.
https://www.cmtedd.act.gov.au/open_government/inform/act_government_media_releases/marisa-paterson-mla-media-releases/2025/have-your-say-on-bushfire-management-in-the-act