NT Fire and Emergency Services Fire Danger Period Declaration – Vernon Arafura - Territorians urged to prepare now

2 July 2025

Bushfires NT (BFNT) and the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) have officially declared the Fire Danger Period for the Vernon Arafura region, including Greater Darwin, effective today.

The Fire Danger Period will remain in place from 2 July, until October 4, due to typical Dry Season conditions, bringing stronger winds and dry vegetation, making fires more difficult to control at this time of year.

Authorities urge all Territorians to prepare now to protect lives, property, and the environment by:

· Reviewing your bushfire survival plan and ensuring all household members understand it.

· Ensuring firebreaks are maintained to at least 4 metres wide.

· Familiarising themselves with the Australian Fire Danger Rating and Warning Systems.

· Staying informed via SecureNT, ABC Radio, and official BFNT and NTFRS social media.

There are also changes to permit requirements within the prescribed area:

· No new burn permits will be issued in Emergency Response Areas (ERAs) during the Fire Danger Period.

· Permits are required in Fire Management Zones (FMZs) during this period.

· Fire Protection Zone (FPZ) residents must have permits year-round.

For more information, visit Fire danger periods | Secure NT [https://securent.nt.gov.au/prepare-for-an-emergency/fires/bushfires/fire-danger-periods].

A map of the Vernon Arafura area can be downloaded here. [https://securent.nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/1530218/vernon-arafura-fire-management-zone.pdf]

You can stay up to date via SecureNT [https://www.facebook.com/secureNT] and by following the Bushfires NT [https://www.facebook.com/BushfiresNT] and NTFRS [https://www.facebook.com/ntfireandrescue/] social media channels.

Report fires to 000 immediately.

Quotes attributable to Bushfires NT Executive Director, Jacqui Forrest:

“Bushfire prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and we can all play a part in keeping the community safe by being responsible with fire and having a bushfire survival plan ready.”

“Bushfires are harder to control in the late Dry Season. Landholders need to be prepared to manage the risk of wildfire on their land.”

Quotes attributable to Chief Fire Officer, NTFRS, Stephen Sewell AFSM:

“Due to increased fire activity, we are declaring the Fire Danger Period for the Vernon Arafura region.”

“Fuel reduction programs are already underway across the Top End, with NTFRS and Bushfires NT working together to reduce risks and support frontline firefighting efforts.”

Media contact:

(08) 8923 9803

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