A new multi-agency taskforce to accelerate hazard reduction ‘and better protect communities across NSW’, has been created by the NSW Labor government.
In a media release, the government says, ‘Taskforce Fire Guard will bring together fire agencies and land managers to strengthen coordination and prioritise high risk areas over the coming months’.
‘Operating from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) State Operations Centre, the taskforce will use predictive services and weather intelligence to support agencies to target efforts where they are needed most.
‘Participating agencies include the RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Crown Lands and Transport for NSW.
‘The centralised body will support existing local arrangements by coordinating resources and using technology to plan and deliver hazard reduction more efficiently across the state.
‘Current conditions have created a valuable window for hazard reduction activity with burns underway across multiple regions.
‘These activities are reducing fuel loads, helping to lower fire intensity and better protect communities ahead of future fire seasons.
‘There may be periods when communities experience smoke and residents are encouraged to download the Hazards Near Me app, follow health advice and take care while driving.
‘It is important for agencies to take every available opportunity to carry out this work which has been hindered in recent years by record floods and prolonged rains, as well as unsettled conditions and less predictable fire seasons.
‘Since 1 July 2025, agencies have treated 45,000 hectares across NSW, helping to protect more than 127,000 properties through a targeted focus’, says the media statement.
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