Data released by CFA and the Crime Statistics Agency has revealed a concerning number of fire-related offences across Victoria over the past five years.
Between 2019 and 2024, there were 1,010 fires lit during the Fire Danger Period (FDP) and 187 fires started on Total Fire Ban (TFB) days.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the stats are worrying.
“Lighting a fire during the Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban puts lives, homes, and emergency responders at risk,” he said.
“If you ignore fire restrictions, you could be facing serious legal repercussions and more importantly, you could be responsible for devastating losses.
“Victoria is already one of the most fire-prone regions in the world, so we certainly don’t need unnecessary challenges created by carelessness or deliberate acts.”
The Fire Danger Period is a designated time in each Victorian municipality when fire restrictions apply due to increased fire risk. A Total Fire Ban is declared on days of extreme conditions, prohibiting any fires in the open air.
Lighting a fire during a declared FDP can result in fines of up to $23,710, 12 months’ imprisonment, or both.
The penalties double for Total Fire Ban days.
All Victorian municipalities are currently in the Fire Danger Period.
To find out more information about the FDP, visit: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-i
Anyone who witnesses illegal or suspicious fire activity should report it immediately by calling Triple Zero (000) or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
