13/09/2026
Bushfire Season Ready: Don't Wait Until November
As spring growth kicks off, it’s time to prepare your property for the upcoming bushfire season. Firebreak installation and hazard reduction works must be fully compliant by 30 November and maintained through to 1 April.
The Shire is taking a strict approach to non-compliance. Property inspections will be conducted, and non-compliant owners face immediate infringements, prosecution, or contractor works completed at their expense.
Beat the Rush – 3 Steps to Take Today
Spray Early: Spray firebreak lines now while plants are actively growing to make later grading or slashing much easier.
Book Contractors: Schedules fill up weeks in advance—secure your machinery operator early.
Chip Away: Spread out branch pruning, gutter clearing, and firewood relocation over the coming weekends.
Compliance Specifications At-A-Glance
1. Bare Earth Firebreaks (3m Wide x 4m High)
Bare Earth Standard: Soil must be completely clear of all flammable material, living plants, and dead vegetation. Spraying herbicide alone is not compliant—dead plant material must be removed to bare dirt.
Dimensions & Access: Minimum 3m wide immediately inside property boundaries, with 4m vertical clearance for heavy appliances, forming a continuous 4WD-trafficable loop.
Wet Ground or Terrain Issues? If seasonal wet spots and terrain issues prevent machinery access, apply in writing for a Variation to Firebreak Notice prior to 15 October.
2. Asset Protection Zone (APZ)
10m Buffer: Required around all homes, homesteads, and major farm sheds/fuel stores.
Grass & Fuel: Keep grass under 50mm (5cm) and clear leaves, twigs, and bark.
Vegetation Pruning: Pruning lower tree branches up to 2m off the ground. Maintain a 2m clearance between building walls and trees/shrubs over 2m tall.
Why Compliance Matters
Firebreak notices set the minimum legal standard. Proper preparation provides safe access for volunteer firefighters, prevents grassfires jumping boundary fences, and reduces radiant heat and ember attack on your home.
For full details on Townsite, Rural, or Plantation requirements, view the Firebreak Notice at the Shire Office or online.
Questions? Contact the Shire or your local Fire Control Officer early.