Shadow Minister for Emergency Management, and Nationals Senator for NSW, Ross Cadell, is urging communities across the state to take today's Total Fire Bans and catastrophic fire danger warnings extremely seriously, as new concerns emerge that hazard reduction activities remain well below recommended levels.
Senator Cadell said Wednesday's conditions with extreme heat, dry fuel loads, and strong winds are a reminder of how essential year-round preparedness is.
"Catastrophic ratings are the highest warning we issue in Australia. They mean fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and may become uncontrollable," Senator Cadell said.
"On days like today, every community needs to be alert, prepared, and acting early. This is exactly the kind of scenario where hazard reduction and fuel load management matters most."
Senator Cadell said he was concerned hazard reduction burning in NSW was below target, continuing an alarming trend observed since the Royal Commission into the devastating 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires recommended expanded fuel load management.
"Hazard reduction is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce the intensity of bushfires and NSW is falling short of its targets."
Senator Cadell urged all residents to follow all Total Fire Ban rules strictly, while calling for a renewed national focus on long term fire planning.
"This is not the day for risk taking. A single ember in today's conditions can threaten lives and homes," Senator Cadell said.
"We cannot continue going into fire seasons with fuel loads that are too high and hazard-reduction levels that are too low. Communities need confidence that mitigation is being taken seriously.
"Emergency response is critical but so is preparation. Hazard reduction, mechanical clearing, Indigenous cultural fire practices and fuel load management must all be part of a stronger and more consistent national approach."
Senator Cadell also acknowledged the volunteer firefighters and first responders facing dangerous frontline conditions today.
"Our RFS volunteers and emergency workers are standing between communities and catastrophe. We owe them not only our gratitude, but a system that makes their job safer not harder."
"Stay alert, follow official advice closely and be prepared to act quickly. Today is a dangerous day for NSW."
