News release

From: AFAC

Seasonal Bushfire Outlook Summer 2023: Australia’s national picture of fire potential  

AFAC, the National Council for fire and emergency services, has released the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2023.

The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2023 serves as a strong reminder to communities and businesses across the country to prepare for bushfire and monitor local conditions. 

Australia has experienced record-breaking dry conditions and warmer than average temperatures during early spring, with hot and dry conditions expected to persist into the new year for many locations.

Abundant vegetation growth supported by previous La Niña rainfall will continue to dry throughout summer, increasing the flammability of fuel loads. This includes some areas burnt during 2019-20 season.

These factors are driving increased risk of fire for large areas of Queensland, NSW, and NT, as well as locations in Tasmania, Victoria, SA and WA.

AFAC CEO Rob Webb said: ‘An increased risk of bushfire makes it even more important for you to take action. Wherever you live, work or visit this summer, know where to find bushfire information, prepare your property, and talk to your family and friends about what you will do in an emergency. Your local fire agency is the perfect place to find out exactly how to stay safe this summer.’

‘Australian fire agencies have had a busy start to the bushfire season, with many working in their communities and across state borders to respond to bushfires. Communities can stay safer and support our fire agencies by being prepared for bushfire this summer.’

State and territory fire authorities will continue to monitor local bushfire conditions closely through summer. Communities should stay informed and prepared, and check official sources for advice and warnings.

Fire potential can vary greatly, even at the smaller scale, between bordering states and territories. Each state and territory’s assessment takes into account different land use types and vegetation types. This is influenced by different forecasts for temperature and rainfall over these regions.

This Seasonal Outlook was developed by the Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, the NSW Rural Fire Service, ACT Emergency Services Agency, ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Country Fire Authority, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Victoria, Tasmania Fire Service, SA Country Fire Service, Department of Fire and Emergency Services and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions WA, Bushfires NT and AFAC.

View the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2023 online. 

Media interviews with AFAC representatives can be arranged on request. AFAC can facilitate media requests with the Bureau of Meteorology and fire authorities as required. For further information on specific state and territory fire potential, AFAC advises media to contact the jurisdictional fire authority.