Fire planning essential for horticultural growers

9 November 2026

Every farm business is unique, that’s why Agriculture Victoria has created a new bushfire toolkit specifically for horticulture.

The Horticulture Bushfire Toolkit brings together practical checklists, planning templates, emergency contacts and recovery resources for horticultural businesses across the state.

Agriculture Victoria acting Program Manager Horticulture Services, Andy Clark, said horticulturalists should prepare and review their bushfire plans before each fire season to ensure everyone understands what to do.

‘Your fire plan should reflect your property, people, crops, equipment, water supplies, access routes and any local risks.

‘Developing a fire plan and undertaking the tasks identified within it can assist you to be better prepared and recover faster, if your property is affected by fire.

‘The Toolkit covers important reminders like updating your emergency contact list and creating a farm map, as well as planning for high-risk days and points to consider in recovery.’

With the outlook for an increased fire risk across parts of Victoria, now is the time for planning for the upcoming season, including what can be done to manage the risk and impacts of bushfire on your property.

The Toolkit covers:

• emergency contacts and fire danger ratings
• an annual bushfire preparation checklist and a bushfire survival plan
• preparing for high-risk bushfire periods and an emergency kit checklist
• recovery contacts and a post bushfire checklist, plus more.

‘The aim is for this Toolkit to be practical and accessible for business owners, their families and employees, helping everyone involved feel prepared and informed, particularly in high-stress situations.

‘From knowing your fire danger ratings, completing an annual checklist, to contacting support services after a bushfire – preparation is key.’

Download a copy of the Horticulture Bushfire Toolkit on the Agriculture Victoria website.

Specifically designed for the Horticulture sector, this Toolkit can be used in conjunction with the Farm Fire Preparedness Toolkit, resources from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and your local council.

The Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers association assisted in the development of this toolkit. The Victorian Farm Business Resilience program is jointly funded by the Victorian Government and the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund.

Media contact: Makayla Rimington

Phone: 0473 914 662