The 2025-26 Victorian fire season officially begins at 1am on Monday, 27 October, with the first Fire Danger Period (FDP) declared for South Gippsland, Wellington, East Gippsland, Baw Baw Shire and Latrobe City councils. Residents are being urged to prepare properties, review fire plans, and ensure compliance with burn-off regulations.

South Gippsland Mayor John Schelling said dry conditions and dense vegetation growth are raising local fire risks. “This season has been drier than normal,” he told the Gippsland Monitor (GP). “We've come off three or four very good seasons but we're having a bit of a dry season this year.”

The early start comes as Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) undertakes urgent safety checks on its fleet. 290 G-Wagens and 59 Unimogs have been withdrawn from service due to chassis cracks. Repairs are being fast-tracked over the next two months, and additional vehicles are being deployed alongside CFA, VICSES, DEECA, and aerial firefighting assets to maintain response capability.

Professor David Bowman, Director of the Fire Centre at the University of Tasmania in speaking to the GP, warned that climate factors are intensifying fire behaviour. “The shrub growth in the last few years is just nuts because there's been wetter conditions… it's quite a sobering scenario,” he said. “We’re seeing more intense, more extreme bushfire behaviour.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan emphasised the need for community action. “With low rainfall, there’s an increase in fuel, such as dead plant material and vegetation, which has the potential to support significant bushfire potential. Make sure your properties are ready and you have a plan in place,” he said.

Residents must obtain a Permit to Burn before lighting fires during the FDP and are encouraged to check firepermits.vic.gov.au for legal requirements.

BREAKOUT

Five things to do now to prepare for bushfire season

  1. Clear gutters, decks, long grass, and vegetation around homes and farm sheds.
  2. Test hoses, pumps, and water access points.
  3. Finalise and share your Bushfire Plan with family and neighbours.
  4. Check burn-off requirements and apply for a Permit to Burn if needed.
  5. Monitor VicEmergency, ABC local radio, and check on vulnerable neighbours.
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