The Finocchiaro CLP Government has deployed specialist fire personnel to Victoria to assist communities impacted by severe bushfires that have caused widespread devastation across the state.
An Incident Management Team of 11 members, a strike team of 22 firefighters, and a jurisdictional liaison officer were deployed overnight to support the response to multiple active fires.
The deployment includes 16 personnel from Bushfires NT, comprising both employees and volunteer firefighters, alongside 18 members from NT Fire and Rescue Service, including career firefighters and volunteers.
Chief Minister and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Lia Finocchiaro said the Northern Territory would send every available resource to assist Victoria during this critical time.
"We stand with Victoria as they battle one of the worst fire emergencies in recent history," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"At least 300 structures have been destroyed, and more than 350,000 hectares have been burnt."
Communities have suffered enormous losses, and we will do everything we can to support them through this devastating event.
"This deployment is about helping to stabilise the situation now and getting on top of existing fires before a return of dangerous fire weather conditions forecast in the coming week."
Territory crews will commence work on the ground across Victoria on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. Members will be deployed for five days and are expected to return to the Northern Territory on Sunday, 18 January 2026.
"Depending on fire behaviour and weather conditions, Victoria anticipates further deployments may be required over the coming weeks to supplement their resources," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"The Northern Territory is proud to have such dedicated personnel with skills, experience and strong sense of service. We wish them a safe deployment and look forward to welcoming them home."
NT Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Andrew Warton said personnel were well prepared to work alongside interstate colleagues in support of the ongoing emergency response.
"NT Fire and Emergency Services train year-round to be ready for emergencies of this scale," Commissioner Warton said.
"Our highly skilled personnel bring strong experience in remote and extreme fire environments, and they are ready to contribute wherever they are needed."
"Our thoughts are with Victorian communities affected by these devastating fires, particularly those who have lost homes, livelihoods, or been forced to evacuate," Commissioner Warton said.
"We know the toll disasters like this take, and we are committed to supporting those on the ground during this difficult time.
"I also want to sincerely thank our members who have volunteered to deploy. Leaving families, communities and day-to-day roles at short notice is no small thing. Their willingness to step forward and help others in crisis speaks volumes about their professionalism and character."
