General News
22 March, 2026
Fire restrictions begin to lift in North West
AS the 2025/26 summer period fades into memory, restrictions on fire lighting will be progressively lifted in some regions from next week.
The Fire Danger Period will officially end at 1am on Monday, March 23, in the CFA’s Districts 18 and 20, which includes parts of the Yarriambiack Shire Council (north of the line described by Galaquil West Road and Galaquil East Road) and Buloke Shire Council.
Although autumn has begun, fire risk remains high and dry weather is expected for months.
As fire restrictions lift, CFA urges residents to stay alert. Current and ongoing conditions can still cause fast-moving grassfires, even in cooler weather.
CFA North West Region deputy chief officer Trevor Weston said restrictions eased because of favourable local factors.
“This year's fire season has been arduous, but the risk is easing in these municipalities, and we need to give our primary producers time to prepare the ground for the growing season ahead," he said.
“Nights are becoming increasingly cool, and we are seeing dew in the mornings that further reduces our fire risk.
“We have also seen some rain start to hit the region.”
Residents travelling in Victoria should stay vigilant and check local Fire Danger Periods.
With the end of an FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it’s essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.
To prevent unnecessary emergency callouts, landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked against the register to avoid an emergency response.
Burn-offs can be registered online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 668 511.