UPDATE: New South Wales is taking urgent action to enhance bushfire resilience as the 2025/26 bushfire season approaches. The state government has just announced the installation of 219 new roadside signs to promote local ABC emergency broadcasts, a critical resource during fire emergencies.
Authorities confirm that Transport for NSW has collaborated with emergency response agencies and local councils to ramp up preparations. This includes participation in over 60 readiness exercises in 2025 alone, all aimed at ensuring community safety as the threat of bushfires looms.
The new signage initiative stems from Recommendation 65b of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, which was delivered in July 2020. This recommendation emphasized the need for improved public awareness regarding emergency broadcasts. The strategically placed signs display local ABC radio frequencies at identified high-risk locations across the state, particularly where mobile service may be limited.
Of the new signs, 64 are located in Greater Sydney, 58 in the north, 54 in the south, and 43 in the west. This rollout builds on the 99 signs installed in key regional areas in 2022, bringing the total to over 300 signs statewide.
In addition to signage, Transport for NSW has installed 30,000-litre water tanks at the Bundjalung and Pine Brush Creek Rest Areas along the Pacific Highway. These tanks will be accessible to the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW, providing essential support to crews battling emergencies. This strategic placement addresses historical challenges in water access during firefighting efforts in the Clarence Valley LGA.
Howard Collins, Coordinator-General of Transport for NSW, stated,
“This is all about reducing the risk of having road closures and the devastation that can occur during a fire. Information is power, and the initiative to roll out more signs indicating local broadcast frequencies is a simple but vital one.”
The agency is also conducting roadside vegetation control to create firebreaks and reduce combustible materials along key road corridors. This proactive approach is designed to enhance safety and ensure smoother transit for emergency vehicles.
Donna Field, Head of Emergency at ABC, emphasized the importance of local radio during emergencies, saying,
“Radio remains a reliable source of information, often delivering critical updates even when other communication channels fail.”
The RFS is fully supportive of these initiatives. Deputy Commissioner Ben Millington remarked,
“Every minute saved in accessing water can make a real difference to the protection of life, property, and the environment.”
He also urged the public to prepare their homes and stay informed through various channels, including the Fires Near Me app and local media.
As the bushfire season approaches, these measures are expected to significantly enhance community safety and preparedness. The rollout of signage and water resources is a critical step in ensuring that both residents and firefighters are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
