Firewise Gardening
A well-designed garden can help reduce bushfire risk while maintaining the character, biodiversity and liveability of your property. Firewise gardening focuses on selecting suitable plants, managing fuel loads and creating separation between vegetation and buildings.
Good garden design considers plant placement, maintenance requirements, mulch selection and ongoing management. No plant is completely fireproof, however some species are more suitable for bushfire-prone areas than others.
The resources below provide practical gardening information and local examples to help residents make informed landscaping decisions. Whether you are creating a new garden or updating an existing one, Firewise gardening principles can help improve resilience while supporting local environmental values.
Resources
Firewise Gardening in WA
Mulch Factsheet
Revegetation Guide
Local More Firewise Plants
Related Videos
Get in contact with the Shire's Fire Safety Team for an onsite chat, (08) 9290 6696 (9 am to 4 pm, Mon to Fri)
Property Maintenance
Regular property maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce bushfire risk around your home. Small actions undertaken throughout the year can help reduce fuel loads, improve access and increase the likelihood that your property will withstand a bushfire.
Seasonal maintenance activities may include pruning vegetation, mowing grass, removing leaf litter, managing fuel accumulation and maintaining Asset Protection Zones (APZs). Keeping buildings, gutters and surrounding areas well maintained also contributes to property preparedness.
The resources below provide practical guidance to help residents prepare throughout the year, with information relevant to both established properties and new developments. The information is designed to complement, not replace, annual firebreak and fuel management requirements.
Resources
Seasonal Property Maintenance
Asset Protection Zones (APZs)
Vegetation Management Guidance
Related Videos
Utilities and Essential Services
Emergencies can disrupt essential services including electricity, water, telecommunications and internet access. Understanding how these services may be affected, and having contingency arrangements in place, can help households remain safer and more resilient during extended disruptions.
Residents are encouraged to consider backup communication methods, emergency water supplies, alternative power options and ways to access important information if services are unavailable. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and improve decision-making during emergencies.
The resources below include general preparedness information and links to utility providers and other organisations responsible for managing essential services. It also provides information about practical alternatives that may assist during outages or service interruptions.
Resources
Power Outage Information
Water Supply Information
Telecommunications and Internet Information
Emergency Communications Resources