IAG today released two new fact sheets about bushfires and the potential dangers they pose to Australians, warning future seasons will be more severe and longer in duration.

The first fact sheet, Bushfire Risk, looks at the threat and includes the latest scientific observations and weather trends, outlining what could be in store especially in local government areas (LGAs) that are likely to face greater exposure.

The second fact sheet, Bushfire Awareness, aims to educate Australians about the causes of bushfires and actions people can take to adequately insure their properties. It contains an explanation of Bushfire Attack Levels (BALs) and what these mean for rebuilding after a bushfire.

“We want to do everything we can to help people understand the risks they face to help them prepare for the future,” IAG Executive Manager Natural Perils Mark Leplastrier said.

“Different parts of the country will start to see an increase in bushfire risk at different times, but the underlying trend is that all parts of Australia will see an increase in the future.”

IAG has listed the top five areas in the states and territories based on the total sum of premium at risk.

In NSW the five most exposed LGAs are the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Sutherland Shire, Wollongong and Wollondilly.

In Queensland they are Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast. In Victoria they are Cardinia, Macedon Ranges, Mornington Peninsula, Murrindindi and Yarra Ranges.

In SA the top five at-risk LGAs are Adelaide Hills, Grant, Naracoorte Lucindale, Tea Tree Gully and Wattle Range. In WA they are Armadale, Busselton, Kalamunda, Rockingham and Wanneroo.

In Tasmania they are Clarence City, Glenorchy City, Hobart City, Huon Valley and Kingborough.