General News
26 March, 2026
Firies strengthen the strategies
AS WE move into autumn, we reflect on the challenges brought by recent extreme heat and bushfires across our state. These events reminded us how important preparation, quick response and community resilience are.
By CHRIS HARDMAN
This summer’s bushfires have been some of the most destructive Victoria has faced in years. Fast‑moving fires burned through more than 400,000 hectares, destroyed buildings and homes, and sadly took the life of a local near Longwood. Communities in areas such as Longwood, Walwa and Harcourt faced fierce fires driven by extreme heat, strong winds and very dry conditions after months of low rainfall followed by rapid grass growth. These conditions meant fires moved quickly and unpredictably, placing pressure on both residents and emergency crews.
We feel deeply for the communities affected. I want to thank our crews, contractors, incident management teams and partner agencies for their hard work to keep Victoria safer. Many of our staff live in the same areas that were impacted. They often support and reassure their own communities while also fighting fires – a tremendous effort that shows their commitment and strength.
Victoria faces a higher fire risk this autumn. We’re closely monitoring conditions, staying ready to respond and making sure resources are placed where they’re needed most. We’re learning from recent events and continuing to strengthen our strategies.
Recent rainfall across much of the state will provide opportunities to burn, however the seasonal outlook shows a higher chance of warmer days through autumn, which may delay the start of planned burning in some areas.
We manage Victoria’s bushfire risk in a holistic way. Planned burning is an important tool, but it’s not the only one. Large, intense fires still threaten the things we care about – our communities, the environment and the services we rely on. Victoria’s natural environments are unique, so fuel management must be balanced with caring for the land.
Our firefighters and fire managers are world‑class. We use the latest research from around the world, but we apply it to Victoria’s conditions and landscapes.
There is no single solution. We reduce fuel‑driven bushfire risk in many ways, including planned burning and non‑burn fuel management.
Autumn usually gives us more chances to carry out planned burns because the weather is more stable, and fire behaviour is more predictable. As soon as conditions are suitable, our crews will begin planned burning across the state.
* Chris Hardman AFSM is Chief Fire Officer with Forest Fire Management Victoria