A state government report has called for the community to play a key role in preventing and tackling future bushfires.
A 10-year Victorian Bushfire Management Strategy published by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Change says fire agencies alone cannot tackle the challenges fires present and calls for a shared approach.
It states individuals, businesses and communities must take responsibility for their own well being and safety, preparedness and resilience.
The report follows two years of consultation by the department that found Victorians want greater transparency about government decision making and a say in how risks are reduced and recovery supported.
The strategic approach "spells out that everyone has a role to play in bushfire management" especially with individuals and community groups' responsibilities to stay informed, understand risks, prepare their properties, create fire plans and act on advice given by emergency authorities.
The strategy sets out objectives across seven key domains: people and community safety, critical infrastructure and economic resilience, Aboriginal self-determination, ecosystem resilience and nature conservation, informed decision-making, shared responsibility, and capability and capacity.
DEECC stated the strategy was supported by a three-year implementation plan and bushfire reporting framework and a $500 million state government investment in response to bushfires in 2019-2020.
That includes assessing the resources needed and how they would be used by government departments and agencies, municipal councils and landowners.
The strategy was developed in response to recommendations that followed an inquiry into the 2019-2020 fire season.
It can be viewed online at vic.gov.au/fire-strategy