Autumn conditions present varied fire potential for locations across Australia, with below normal bushfire potential in areas of NSW, Victoria and the ACT but above normal conditions in lower southeast SA, and WA areas associated with higher fuel loads.

AFAC, the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services, says while most of Australia shows normal bushfire potential during the autumn, anyone living and working in these areas needs to be vigilant.

“Destructive and deadly fires can still occur during normal bushfire seasons across Australia,” it says.

Recent rainfall has resulted in average to above average soil moisture and stream flows across large parts of eastern Australia, and the outlook for autumn suggests above-average rainfall is likely over large parts of the country.

“As we move into autumn, fire authorities across many areas of Australia will use these cooler months to undertake mitigation activities, such as prescribed burning,” AFAC CEO Rob Webb said. "Agencies will continue to monitor local conditions and manage risks accordingly.”

Above normal bushfire potential is expected for lower southeast SA due to prolonged dry conditions and indications that above average temperatures are possible over the next three months.

WA experienced significant bushfire incidents over summer, and with forecasted maximum temperatures along the west coast likely to be above average, areas associated with higher fuel loads will continue to have above normal fire potential during autumn.

Areas of NSW, Victoria and the ACT have below normal bushfire potential due to increased fuel and soil moisture from good rainfall received over summer, and reduced fuel loads in areas recovering from the 2019-20 fire season.