The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will officially end at 1.00 am on Monday, 23 March 2026 in the following municipalities within CFA's Districts 18 and 20.
Campaspe Shire Council
Gannawarra Shire Council
Loddon Shire Council
Buloke Shire Council
Mildura Rural City Council
Swan Hill Rural City Council
Yarriambiack Shire Council (North of the line described by: Galaquil West Road and Galaquil East Road)
It has been a long and challenging fire season and as we head into autumn, there is still heightened fire risk, with dry weather expected for many more months.
As fire restrictions begin to lift, CFA is urging residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer for the North West Region Trevor Weston, said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors in some areas.
"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," Trevor said.
"Nights are becoming increasingly cool, and we are seeing dew in the mornings that further reduces our fire risk and potential.
"We also have seen some rain start to hit the region."
Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the Fire Danger Periods that are in place in the region they are residing.
With the end of the 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 with 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.
Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.
Burn-off safety checklist
Check fire restrictions in your area and register your burn-off.
Monitor weather conditions, especially wind.
Notify neighbours to prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
Maintain a three-metre firebreak, clear of flammable materials.
Have enough equipment and water to contain the fire.
Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay until it is fully extinguished.
If your burn-off gets out of control, call 000 immediately.
For tips on protecting your health from smoke, visit the EPA Victoria website.
