Bush fire season closes for most of New South Wales as RFS urges continued caution
Iain Hoey
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Majority of NSW sees end to 2024–25 fire season
The NSW Rural Fire Service has confirmed that the 2024–25 fire season officially ended on 31 March 2025 for most parts of New South Wales.
According to the NSW Rural Fire Service, fire restrictions remain in place for areas of the Central Tablelands and north-west of the state due to continued elevated fire risk.
Commissioner Rob Rogers said that throughout the season, crews attended more than 4,100 bush and grass fires, which affected over 61,000 hectares.
Support provided across multiple states
Crews from the NSW Rural Fire Service also provided assistance outside New South Wales.
Commissioner Rogers said: “Members have also spent considerable time assisting interstate communities, with crews and aircraft deployed to assist with both fires and floods in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia.”
He added: “Their dedication and selfless efforts have helped protect lives and property across the country, and I thank every member for their commitment to Australian communities.”
Alongside bush fire response, RFS crews attended over 2,800 motor vehicle incidents and nearly 700 structure fires.
Localised restrictions remain in effect
Although the broader fire season has ended, the Bush Fire Danger Period has been extended in 11 Local Government Areas.
Commissioner Rogers said: “Restrictions will continue until 13 April for the Bogan, Coonamble, Warren, Walgett, Narrabri, Moree Plains and Gwydir LGAs, and until 30 April in the Mid-Western, Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon LGAs.”
He advised that residents in these areas would still need to obtain fire permits.
RFS advises ongoing preparation and awareness
Commissioner Rogers reminded residents to remain aware of fire risks, particularly west of the Great Dividing Range.
“Grass fuel loads remain a concern, and fires can occur at any time of the year,” he said.
“Fire permits are no longer required for those in areas outside the Bush Fire Danger Period. For those in areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period has been extended, fire permits will still be required.”
He added: “No matter the time of year, however, everyone must still notify neighbours and local fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up and this is easy to do via the RFS website.”
He also encouraged preparation: “Now is the time to make sure your property is prepared, your family has a bush fire survival plan, and you know exactly what you will do if threatened by fire.”
Bush fire season closes for most of New South Wales as RFS urges continued caution: Summary
The NSW Rural Fire Service announced the end of the 2024–25 fire season for most of New South Wales on 31 March 2025.
Fire restrictions remain in place in 11 Local Government Areas due to local fire risk.
Crews responded to over 4,100 bush and grass fires across the season, burning more than 61,000 hectares.
January was the busiest month, with conditions eased by New Year rainfall.
More than 2,800 motor vehicle accidents and nearly 700 structure fires were also attended.
RFS members supported emergency efforts in five other states.
The Bush Fire Danger Period will continue until mid to late April in specified LGAs.
Permits are still required in areas where restrictions remain in effect.
All landholders must notify neighbours and fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up.
The RFS continues to advise residents to remain prepared and aware of fire risks year-round.
