Environmental Recovery

Fire Ecology

Fire ecology is the component of fire management that involves the study of fire and its interaction with the natural environment.

We live in a fire prone environment dictated by our climate of wet winters (which creates fuel) and hot dry summers. Victoria is one of the most bushfire prone areas in the world. Many of our plants and animals have evolved to survive fire events, and are reliant on bushfire to regenerate and maintain their health. In particular, biodiversity is dependent on appropriate fire regimes (fire intensity, frequency, season, extent and type).

For more information on fire ecology refer to the Department of Sustainability and Environment's website.

For more information on how Victoria manages fire, please visit Living with fire - Victoria's Bushfire Strategy and the Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land.

Vegetation clearing

In 2009 the Victorian Government announced interim planning provisions to simplify residents' entitlements to clear native vegetation around their homes as part of their preparations for the 2009/10 fire season. 

These provisions have been extended until 1 March 2012 in response to the findings of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, visit the Department of Sustainability and Environment's vegetation management webpage for more information.

Native vegetation is not just valued as habitat for native animals and its natural heritage, but also plays an important role in reducing erosion and stabilising soil to minimise the risk of landslip.

If you are thinking about removing native vegetation, particularly trees, from your property it is important to be aware of the associated risks of landslip and erosion.

Factsheet - Managing landslip and erosion [PDF 89.63KB]

Regeneration of native bushland

In most cases, native vegetation burnt in the bushfires will regenerate by natural processes given the right conditions. In some cases however, for example where erosion is occurring, planting of native vegetation or direct seeding may be required to stabilise soils and assist with the natural process of regeneration. For advice on revegetation, landowners can contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment or their local Catchment Management Authority.

There are many local indigenous nurseries that may be able to provide indigenous seed stock, advice and assistance with seed collection. Contact the Indigenous Fauna and Flora and Flora association for details.

In addition, Greening Australia operates commercial and non-profit seedbanks and native plant nurseries in locations across Australia, and can also help with seed collection, identification and supply services. For more information visit their website or phone 9450 5300.

Further information

For further information contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment on 136 186 or visit http://www.dse.vic.gov.au

Natural values recovery and funded projects

In October 2009, the Victorian and Commonwealth government announced funding for natural values recovery projects as part of the 'Rebuilding Together' - Statewide Recovery Plan.

For information on these projects and natural values recovery in general, visit the DSE Natural Values Recovery page