General News
31 March, 2026
Bush Fire Danger Period ends
The 2025–26 bush fire season will end for most of NSW at midnight tonight, marking the end of the official Bush Fire Danger Period.
Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), Trent Curtin, said firefighters responded to more than 10,200 bush and grass fires, which burnt approximately 126,000 hectares during the season.
“The past few months have again demonstrated the professionalism and dedication of our volunteers and staff who stand ready to protect their communities,” Commissioner Curtin said.
Among the more serious incidents this season was the bush fire at Koolewong on the Central Coast, where 16 homes were destroyed. Firefighters also responded to several notable fires across the Mid Coast and Hunter regions, requiring large numbers of crews and aerial firefighting resources.
Four Local Government Areas (LGA), Narrabri, Gwydir, Moree Plains, and Mid-Western, will extend the period until the end of April due to local conditions.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib thanked RFS volunteers for their dedication protecting communities across NSW and beyond this season.
“It has been a busy bush fire season for RFS volunteers who have responded to more than 6,900 fires and I thank them for their efforts across NSW,” Mr Dib said.
“RFS crews also deployed interstate to assist with emergency operations in Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory, while RFS members and the Large Air Tanker, Marie Bashir, supported international firefighting efforts in Canada and the USA.”
Fire agencies and land managers will now increase hazard reduction activities where conditions allow, including planned burns to reduce vegetation and lower the risk of future bush fires.
“At the end of the bush fire season our focus immediately shifts to preparing for the next; fire agencies will take every possible opportunity to carry out planned burns and hazard reduction,” Mr Dib said.
“Our volunteers give their time to keep communities safe, and while the season is ending, the risk doesn’t disappear. Everyone should remain prepared and take steps to reduce their risk.”
Despite the season drawing to a close, Commissioner Curtin urged residents not to become complacent.
“For areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period has ended, fire permits will no longer be required, but they will still apply in LGAs where the period has extended,” he said.
“Regardless of the time of year, people must still notify their neighbours and local fire authorities at least 24 hours before lighting up. This can be done quickly and easily via the RFS website.
“Now is also a good time for landholders and residents to review their bush fire survival plan and ensure their property is prepared ahead of future fire seasons."
