Bush fires

The Shire administers the Bush Fire Act 1954 which places certain requirements on landowners to ensure that they minimise the potential for fires to occur.

All landowners have a responsibility to prevent the outbreak of fire by ensuring appropriate firebreaks are maintained and that inflammable material is removed from their land. You may be placing your property or your neighbour’s property in danger by not minimising the potential for fires to occur.

An infringement can be issued for non-compliance with the Bush Fires Act.  Further, if Shire staff are required to undertake work on your property to ensure that it complies with the legislation, the Shire may charge you for the costs associated with undertaking any such work. 

THE SHIRE OF ASHBURTON HAS RESTRICTED BURNING ALL YEAR ROUND

(Fires are prohibited all year without a permit other than for the purpose of camping and cooking)

2022/23 Bush Fire Notice

Fire Control Officers

The Shire of Ashburton has appointed Fire Control Officers (FCO) for areas within and surrounding the Shire boundaries.

Fire Weather Officers

The Shire of Ashburton has appointed Fire Weather Officers (FWO) for areas within and surrounding the Shire boundaries.

Be Bushfire Ready

To learn more about preparing for bushfires and how to respond in an emergency, visit the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website for a range of information.

Be Bushfire Ready

Dangerous bushfires can start at any time so it important to understand your risks and plan what you’ll do to keep safe when a bushfire threatens your home and family.

One of the most critical and valuable things you can do is to make a bushfire plan. It is recommended to take five minutes to discuss these simple questions:

  • When will you leave?
  • What will you take?
  • Where will you go?

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) have a free online bushfire plan resource which can be accessed via https://mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au/

Residents are also reminded that earlier this year, the Western Australian Fire Danger Rating System was updated to be in line with the national standard.

Community members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new rating system to understand the warnings and the necessary actions associated with each.

For more information and resources this bushfire season, visit https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/hazard-information/bushfire