19/08/2026
AFAC is the Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services.
AFAC has released Australia’s national bushfire outlook for spring with fire authorities predicting a heightened risk of fire across northern and southeastern New South Wales, south-east Queensland, northeastern Tasmania, parts of Western Australia (WA), South Australia and Victoria, and large parts of the Northern Territory.
Below average rainfall has increased bushfire risk potential across northeast and eastern Tasmania, as well as parts of Victoria.
AFAC CEO Rob Webb said: “This outlook highlights a heightened risk of fire across several parts of the country, driven by a combination of dry conditions in the east and increased fuel loads through parts of central and northern Australia. The variety of risk factors across different regions reinforces the need for communities to understand their local conditions and prepare early."
Communities are encouraged to stay informed, monitor local conditions and follow advice from their fire and emergency
The areas marked in red on the map represent an increased risk of fire, largely driven by below average rainfall and dry conditions.
Under the forecast conditions, there is potential for multiple large fires starting as early as October across parts of the state.
Now is a great time to start preparing your plan and property, including:
📋 Updating your fire plan
🌱 Mowing long grass
🏡 Clearing gutters.
For more tips on how you can get ready for the upcoming fire season, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property
