In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000)

Media Releases

Interstate assistance to help with Victoria’s Bushfires

POSTED: 
23 December 2024

Victoria will receive interstate assistance for expected elevated fire risk on Boxing Day and Friday.

Over 100 personnel will be provided from across New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland and Tasmania.

This will include two Incident Management Teams (IMTs) and four specialised firefighting taskforces.

State Response Controller David Nugent said these interstate resources would be a welcome relief for local crews.

“Victoria is thrilled to be receiving help from our interstate colleagues during our time of need,” David said.

“The fires burning in the Grampians National Park, Bullengarook and The Gurdies are still not yet under control. These extra resources will be critical for the upcoming spike days.

“Although Melbourne saw some rainfall yesterday evening into the early hours this morning, this has had minimal impact on our current going fires.”

“The Grampians fire continued to grow overnight to almost 41,000 hectares, pushing further north towards Halls Gap. The Grampians National Park remains closed.

“Whilst we have more settled conditions in the coming days, hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to impact the state ahead of a westerly wind change late on Thursday into Friday morning.

“Crews are continuing back-burning operations to protect nearby towns and establish fire breaks.

“We remind all Victorians to continue to stay informed of conditions and to make sure they have a fire survival plan for the days ahead.”

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including:

  • VicEmergency app
  • www.emergency.vic.gov.au
  • Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
  • Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
  • Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X

 

Media contact:

State Control Centre Media: 1300 287 289