Cultural burning
Cultural burning is an ancient practice rooted in Aboriginal wisdom. It involves the intentional use of fire to manage land, maintain and improve the health of landscapes, and reduce bushfire risks. This practice is more than just hazard reduction; it is a holistic approach to land stewardship that nurtures Country, its people, and kin.
Cultural Burn Program
In response to the 2019–20 bushfires, we developed a Cultural Burn Program. This program facilitates cultural fire management on Crown land and includes 2 distinct practices:
Cultural burning
Started, planned, and led by Traditional Owners, this practice involves cultural objectives and allows the community to care for and connect to Country.
Cultural burning is an ancient, low-risk, and sustainable practice.
Culturally informed burning
In partnership with Aboriginal communities, this practice can involve both cultural and hazard reduction objectives. It respects traditional cultural fire practices and experience, fostering a connection to Country for Aboriginal communities.
The program aims to empower Aboriginal communities, support Traditional Owners, and encourage community participation. We work closely with Aboriginal communities and Local Aboriginal Land Councils to facilitate these burns, ensuring that cultural knowledge and practices are respected and integrated into land management.
Benefits of cultural burning
Cultural burning offers many benefits, including:
- Enhancing biodiversity and promoting the growth of native plants.
- Protecting and improving cultural heritage sites.
- Fostering knowledge sharing and cultural renewal within Aboriginal communities.
How to get involved
Aboriginal communities who want to discuss these fire practices on Crown land are encouraged to contact our Aboriginal fire officers for information and support:
- email [email protected]
- phone 1300 886 235