Fire restrictions locked in as West Vic’s summer fire risk climbs

Authorities say the region’s spring rain is unlikely to offset the predicted heat.

Zara Cuthbertson
December 05, 2025

Western Victoria has been flagged as one of the Australian regions at the most risk during the summer bushfire season.

Fire Danger Period: The release of the national outlook from the Australian and New Zealand National Council for Fire and Emergency Services’ (known as AFAC) coincides with the Country Fire Authority’s declaration of the Fire Danger Period for Warrnambool City, Southern Grampians, Moyne, Glenelg, Corangamite and Colac Otway local government areas.

Restrictions will come into force at 1am on Monday, December 8. This means the use of fire in open air is restricted to prevent fires starting.

During this period, locals can only light some fires, such as barbecues or campfires, if certain safety conditions are met or permits are acquired.

Bureau’s prediction: The Bureau of Meteorology noted in the outlook that the “forecast signalled for December to February rainfall is weak”, meaning most of Australia faces roughly equal odds of wetter- or drier-than-average conditions.

The chance of above-average rain has eased in recent updates, with a stronger push toward drier weather expected in December.
La Niña remains active but is expected to be short-lived.
Fire services warn that even with spring rain, vegetation can dry out quickly once temperatures rise.

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The site has retained many original features from the 1870s.

High-risk year: AFAC had already declared heightened bushfire risk for western Victoria heading into winter and spring this year.

In October, a bushfire at Mount Richmond near Heywood razed 2,200 hectares of national park and surrounding bushland.

Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman said at the time “even though we’re seeing some rain this spring, it’s not enough to catch up”.

“Once it warms and dries out, we’ll be facing an above-average bushfire season.”

Stay safe: Residents can prepare early by cleaning up around their properties, removing fuel such as dry leaves and long grass that can start fires and by reviewing their bushfire plans.

To stay informed during the Fire Danger Period, locals can download the VicEmergency app, tune into local radio for emergency updates or follow their local CFA brigade on social media.