Bushfire Mitigation

The Shire undertakes targeted work on land it manages to reduce bushfire risk to people, property, infrastructure and the environment. Treatments are prioritised through risk assessment and are only one part of shared bushfire risk management.

How Work is Prioritised

The Shire’s program is informed by its Bushfire Risk Management Plan, the Bushfire Resilience in the Great Southern program, applicable planning requirements, site inspections, treatment history and available funding.

Priority considers the likelihood and consequence of bushfire, nearby assets, access, environmental and cultural values, and whether a treatment is practical and effective.

Treatment Methods

A treatment is selected for the site and may include:

slashing, mowing and mechanical removal
pruning, lopping, mulching and hand weeding
selective chemical treatment by authorised operators
prescribed burning or cultural burning where appropriate
construction or maintenance of fire access tracks, strategic breaks and drainage
landscaping and other works that reduce fuel or improve safe access.

Works may be funded through the Shire’s fire-management budget, the DFES Mitigation Activity Fund or other programs.

Planning Work Safely

Before work, the Shire considers weather, smoke, traffic, access, environmental constraints, dieback hygiene, cultural heritage, permits and the safety of crews and the public. Prescribed burns only proceed when suitable conditions and approvals are in place. Timing and scope may change at short notice.

Current and Planned Works

The current works list should identify the responsible land manager so residents know whether to contact the Shire, DBCA, Main Roads or another agency.

Location	Treatment	Indicative timing	Status and lead agency	Map
[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[LINK]
[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[SHIRE TO INSERT]	[LINK]

Your Responsibilities Remain

Work on Shire-managed or other public land does not replace an owner or occupier’s responsibility to comply with the Bushfire Management Notice on private land.

Bushfire risk cannot be eliminated, and residents must maintain their property and emergency plan.

Enquiries About Mitigation Work

Contact the Shire on (08) 9892 1111 or email [email protected]. Include the location, nearby road or reserve, the issue observed and a photograph where safe and relevant.