RACV urges Victorians to be prepared amid increased grassfire threat

RACV is urging Victorians to prepare their homes and review their insurance following elevated grassfire warnings across the state.

The Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) has warned in its Summer 2025 Seasonal Bushfire Outlook of an increased risk of grassfires in Western and Central Victoria and an increased risk of grassfires and bushfires for the state’s South-West, Western, Central, North-Central regions and South-West Gippsland.

AFAC pointed towards average to above average rainfall in southern Victoria, and below average in the north and Gippsland, that has temporarily boosted soil moisture and vegetation growth, but not enough to offset severe dryness.

Grassfires can ignite easily, and in the right conditions can spread at speeds of up to 25 kilometres an hour. The CFA warns that urban-fringe and regional properties with unmanaged long grass or debris near homes are particularly vulnerable.

RACV Head of Policy James Williams said that Victorians should not be complacent about grassfire readiness and recommends residents review their insurance.

“Our priority is making sure Victorian families are properly protected if the worst happens. We're encouraging everyone to review their insurance now – to ensure they have adequate insurance protection for their homes and vehicles,” Mr Williams said.

“Use RACV's online calculators to estimate your rebuild costs at today's prices, not what you insured for years ago. We want to ensure families have the insurance they need, when they need it the most.”

RACV recommends that Victorians review their insurance:

• Check that your home and contents and motor insurance are current, and be aware of what is covered and what is not covered.
• Use the home buildings calculator to estimate the cost to rebuild or repair your home and the home contents calculator to estimate the cost to repair or replace your belongings.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) urges the importance of understanding the characteristics of grassfires to help reduce the risk to your family and property. 

Grassfires can start anywhere and spread rapidly, and RACV recommends Victorians take the following steps to reduce the risk or impact of grassfires:

1. Mow and clear long grass – Keep grass short and remove cuttings promptly, especially around the home boundary.
2. Clear gutters and roof debris – Leaf litter and mulch pose an ignition risk from embers or radiant heat.
3. Remove flammable materials – Wood piles, stored fuel, and other items near the house should be relocated away from vegetation zones.
4. Check access and visibility – Ensure driveways and roads are clear, signage visible, and watering systems are functional.
5. Plan your trip – be alert to any grassfires on the route to and from your summer destination, and be ready to change your plans if fires should occur.
6. Stay informed – Download the VicEmergency app and monitor the Fire Danger Rating for your area

For more information about grassfires and grassfire prevention, visit the RACV Website.