FFMVic say unauthorised fires on public land are putting the community at risk

During that period, FFMVic crews responded to three fires in the district which were all ignited by residents attempting to burn leaves and other debris on adjoining public land to their properties.

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FFMVic Murray Goldfields District manager Adrian Parker said unfortunately the fires were left unattended and escaped, with nearby residents having to call authorities for assistance.

"(That left) crews to be deployed to extinguish the blazes, taking them away from other critical summer preparedness activities," he said.

"These incidents are preventable and place firefighters, residents, the environment and surrounding communities to unnecessary risk.

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"Residents are never permitted to conduct burning or slashing activities on public land, including river frontages or empty blocks near their home to improve their view."

Mr Parker said as part of the state government's Safer Together approach, FFMVic and the Country Fire Authority will prepare a three-year Joint Fuel Management Plan to set out actions that will help reduce the bushfire risk to communities and the environment.

"Working with local communities is a key part of this to make sure everyone has their say about where and when planned burning should occur to reduce bushfire risk on both public and private land," he said.

Under the Forest Act 1958, it is illegal to light fires on public land for fuel management or leave fires unattended.

Maximum penalties could include a fine of $18,174, two years in jail, or both.

To report illegal burning on public land, please contact DELWP at 136 186.

To find out when and where planned burns are happening near you, go to or sign up at www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns or call 1800 226 226.

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