The 2025–26 bushfire season officially ended in the ACT on Tuesday, with fire authorities praising volunteers and pointing to faster detection, earlier warnings and rapid response as key features of the season.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Marisa Paterson said the season demonstrated how far emergency management had progressed, with fires identified, attacked and communicated to the community more quickly than in the past.

Lightning-sparked fires in early January were detected within minutes using aviation resources, before being quickly contained by Remote Area Firefighting (RAFT) crews, alongside early public warnings.

“This season has reinforced the value of investment in early detection, aerial response and modern warning systems, giving Canberrans confidence that the Territory is staying ahead of fire risk,” she said.

ACT Rural Fire Service Chief Officer Rohan Scott said the commitment of volunteers remained central to the Territory’s emergency response.

“Our volunteers give an incredible amount of time and energy, and behind every response is the support of families who make that service possible,” Mr Scott said.

“I want to sincerely thank our volunteers and their support networks for their ongoing dedication to the ACT community.

“Preparedness doesn’t stop when the season ends. The ACT Rural Fire Service will continue training and conducting hazard reduction activities to ensure we’re as prepared as possible for the next season, and we urge community members to do their part by creating an emergency survival plan.”

Warmer conditions saw four Total Fire Ban days declared in the ACT, the first time since 2020 such bans had been required.