General News
15 February, 2026
Fire hazard notices rise as council steps up inspections
NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council has already issued 189 Fire Prevention Notices during the current fire hazard inspection period, a figure slightly higher than in previous years, as officers continue checks across the municipality ahead of peak fire danger. The figure, current as of January 21, is expected to rise further, with council confirming it is still responding to reports and complaints that may lead to additional inspections and notices.
Northern Grampians Shire chief executive Brent McAlister said council officers were authorised under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 to inspect private properties and issue Fire Prevention Notices where required.
“To reduce community fire risk, council officers are authorised under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 to inspect private properties and issue Fire Prevention Notices where necessary,” Mr McAlister said.
He said council proactively inspects properties identified as a risk through the Victorian Fire Risk Register, as determined by the Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee, while also inspecting properties outside those areas in response to complaints.
“Fire prevention is crucial for protecting properties and – most importantly – lives,” Mr McAlister said.
“Parts of our municipality are particularly vulnerable to bushfires and therefore any work people do to safeguard their own property helps to protect our community.
“Fires can start in an instant, but if we are proactive, in many cases it can help reduce their severity.”
Mr McAlister said Fire Prevention Notices are issued to property owners who have not taken appropriate measures to reduce fire risk, and warned that failure to comply can result in further action.
“If the works required have not been completed by the due date, a contractor will be engaged by council,” he said,“These costs will be charged to the property owner along with an additional administration fee and a fine of $2035.”
He said property maintenance was a year-round responsibility for landholders.
“Property owners have a responsibility to maintain their property year-round. This includes ensuring that the fuel load is reduced throughout the Fire Danger Period,” Mr McAlister said.
Council is urging residents to take simple steps to reduce risk, including mowing or slashing grass and weeds to less than 10 centimetres in height, raking up leaves and bark around buildings, pruning low branches near structures and fences, and removing rubbish and garden waste.
Further information on property fire preparedness is available via the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au.
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