Bushfires
How we can help
Our teams offer localised support to farmers and landholders to support prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
We are on hand to offer advice and up to date information to get you through these tough times. Speak to your local team by calling 1300 795 299. You can also stay up to date via our Facebook pages. To find your local region, type the region name at the end of www.facebook.com/region.
Due to our role in supporting the NSW bushfire response, we have allocated staff and resources to the most affected areas. In many cases it will be some time before properties can be accessed and we will continue to help with recovery.
In addition, many of our staff have been fighting fires alongside the NSW Rural Fire Service, or are protecting their own properties. These factors may cause temporary delays in providing some services and answering enquiries. Please be patient and we will respond as soon as we are able.
Planning for bushfires
Bushfires are a common and natural occurrence in NSW and Australia in general. Planning for bushfires can save your life and/or the lives of your family and animals.
If you own or manage land, then you are legally responsible for minimising the risks. The Rural Fires Act 1997 states that land managers and owners are responsible for carrying out hazard reduction to protect existing dwellings, major buildings and other assets susceptible to fire.
Being fully prepared for a bushfire can help you protect yourself, your family, your livestock and your property. It is recommended that you create a bushfire survival plan well before the fire season begins.
The NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW State Emergency Services both offer clear instructions and information about the best way to create a plan through the website, MyFirePlan, to help you be prepared.
Preparing livestock for bushfire
- Reduce the risk: Reducing a potential fuel load can help lower the fire risk. Keeping your property well maintained and the grass low is a great place to start. More information can be found here, or get in contact with your local Rural Fire Service.
- Have a safe area: Identify and prepare a safe area on your property where livestock can be located away from danger. It should have access to food and water and preferably have multiple access points. This could be a heavily grazed/ploughed paddock, or large, clear stockyards. All water troughs and any additional containers should be filled with water. Don’t rely on automatic water systems. More examples of safe areas can be found here.
- Consider a relocation plan: If mustering and moving your stock is an option, determine the trigger point at which you will put your plan into action. Acting early will give you time to deal with unforeseen issues. Stressed livestock may be harder to handle or load. Consider how you will load and transport them, where you will take them, and how you will care for them. Commercial carriers may not be available at short notice and you should never risk your safety by driving, walking or riding through active fire-zones.
- Have an emergency kit: This should include a list of emergency phone numbers such as your vet, Local Land Services and an agricultural supply store. Also include any medications and applicators needed, animals first aid supplies, wire cutters and a sharp knife.
About bushfires management in NSW
Bushfires are a common and natural occurrence across Australia and properly planning for bushfires can save your life and the lives of your family and animals.
Under the Rural Fires Act 1997, owners or managers of land are legally responsible for minimising the risks of bushfires. This means you’re responsible for carrying out hazard reduction to protect existing dwellings, major buildings and other assets at risk of fire.
At Local Land Services, our staff are the boots on the ground to support farmers and landholders in preparing for, responding to and recovering from bushfires.
For life-threatening emergencies, including bushfires, call 000.
For local bushfire support and advice contact your Local Land Services office or call us on 1300 795 299.
Fire bans and permits
It’s essential to know what the fire restrictions are for your region. These restrictions are updated by the NSW Rural Fire Service according to the current weather and environment.
For information about current fire emergencies in NSW, call the Rural Fire Services hotline on 1800 679 737 or download the NSW Rural Fire Service Fires Near Me app from iTunes or Android.
Emergency contacts
For information about current fire emergencies call the NSW Rural Fire Service hotline on 1800 679 737 or download the NSW Rural Fire Service Fires Near Me app for Android or iTunes and turn on alerts as well as set up notification zones. You can also view Fires Near Me from your computer.
Looking after yourself and others
We understand how stressful, sad and overwhelming bushfires are for individuals and communities.
For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, contact the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line on 1800 018 444 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday.
You can also contact the following free services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Mensline - 1300 789 978
- Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
- Beyondblue - 1300 22 4636.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000.