The past six years have been hard for the state's firefighters who have fought many large fires in Victoria, interstate and even internationally, as well as dealing with inquiries and significant public debate about bushfire management.

This year, it is heartening to see public recognition of the improved ways fire operations have been managed, with a significant commitment to change since the findings of the Victorian Bushfire Inquiry in 2003.

The State Government allocated $168 million to implement the 148 recommendations of the inquiry, but extra resources are not all that are needed.

The recommendations require a change in attitude, and a sustained commitment from the fire services, public land managers, state and local government - and most importantly, the community.

There have been vast improvements to the way all do business, but this is not a one or two year program, It is an ongoing process, without a completion date, and there is no room for complacency.

The fuel reduction burning program will begin soon, and brings its own inherent risks, and the state's fire services will be working to increase the area being burnt, under what can be difficult weather conditions.I encourage all Victorians to support them in their efforts to improve bushfire safety.

BRUCE ESPLIN, Emergency Services Commissioner