Victoria increases fire preparedness amid high-risk season forecasts

Victoria is preparing for a potentially high-risk bushfire season, with emergency officials warning of increased dangers due to forecasted El Niño conditions. Victoria’s Emergency Management Commissioner, Tim Wiebusch, noted that the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a variable summer characterized by hotter, drier conditions and intense rainfall during storms. The East Gippsland region is identified as a particular area of concern due to existing dryness in the landscape.

To support frontline responders, the Victorian State Government has announced a $17 million funding boost for the Country Fire Authority (CFA). This investment aims to provide critical resources, including more bulk water tanks to ensure reliable access in areas with limited surface supplies, and additional bulk water carriers and tankers to assist firefighting aircraft and crews. The funding will also address diesel fuel security and the removal of hazardous trees to support prolonged operations.