The Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) has released its Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring 2026, identifying an extended fire season and above average fire danger across the Top End, Arnhem and Savanna regions.
The Top End wet season is expected to begin later than average, extending the bushfire season into November, with fire danger expected to peak during September and October.
Elevated fire potential is also forecast across Central Australia, with extensive fuel loads expected to drive increased fire activity in the Barkly, Tanami and Simpson Desert regions. The Barkly and Tanami districts are expected to enter their peak fire danger period in October and November, while the Simpson Desert is forecast to experience above average fire potential from September.
The outlook notes that above average vegetation growth following the 2025-26 wet season has resulted in significant fuel loads across much of the Territory, particularly in the Barkly and southern regions. Areas where grass fuels remain unburnt for one year or longer are expected to face the highest fire potential.
Commissioner of NT Fire and Emergency Services Andrew Warton said the outlook was a timely reminder for Territorians to prepare now.
“The outlook tells us conditions are in place for a challenging spring bushfire season across large parts of the Territory, particularly where grass fuels remain unburnt and fully cured,” Commissioner Warton said.
“With extensive fuel loads across Central Australia and a delayed wet season expected to extend the Top End fire season, Territorians need to prepare now for the conditions forecast over the coming months.”
“Bushfire behaviour is influenced by three key factors: weather, topography and fuel load. We can’t control the weather or the landscape, but we can reduce fuel loads and mitigate the risks.
“Many bushfires are caused by human activity and are preventable. Under the conditions forecast over the coming months, a single spark can quickly escalate into a significant bushfire.
“Now is the time to clear your property, maintain your firebreaks, make sure firefighting equipment is accessible and maintained, and review your bushfire survival plan.”
NT Fire and Emergency Services encourage Territorians to:
· Review your bushfire survival plan and ensure all household members understand it.
· Maintain firebreaks at least four metres wide around your property.
· Reduce fuel loads and ensure firefighting equipment is accessible and maintained.
· Check Fire Danger Ratings and Permit to Burn requirements before undertaking activities that could start a fire.
· Stay informed through SecureNT, ABC Radio and official Bushfires NT and NT Fire and Rescue Service social media channels.
