Victoria expands AI camera network to detect bushfires earlier
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 04:31 · Archive
Victoria is investing $3.8 million to expand its AI-powered bushfire camera network from seven to eleven cameras by November 2027.
Victoria is investing $3.8 million to expand its network of AI-powered bushfire detection cameras from seven to eleven by November 2027. The expansion is jointly funded with Hancock Victorian Plantations and Green Triangle Fire Alliance, with additional cameras to be installed on private plantations.
The cameras provide 24-hour automated monitoring, scanning for signs of fire and alerting authorities to enable faster response. The existing seven cameras detected 40 fires during 2023/24 and 46 fires in 2024/25, according to the state government. Victoria's Rural and Regional Development Minister Michaela Settle said the expanded network would 'spot fires earlier, giving firefighters more time to respond and keep communities safe'.
The announcement comes as Australia's southeast braces for a high-risk fire season driven by below-average rainfall and a supercharged El Niño weather system. Victoria's far east has been identified as particularly vulnerable, along with parts of southeast Queensland, northeastern Tasmania, Western Australia and South Australia. Emergency Services Minister Paul Edbrooke said the expanded camera network would give emergency services 'the information they need to act quickly, respond earlier and help keep Victorians safe'.
How it is being reported
- Firies get AI boost ahead of summer bushfire seasonOne state is turning to AI cameras as it ramps up bushfire protections ahead of a high-risk fire season.Perth Now · 26 Oct, 04:07
- Firies get AI boost ahead of summer bushfire seasonOne state is turning to AI cameras as it ramps up bushfire protections ahead of a high-risk fire season.The West Australian · 26 Oct, 04:07
In this story: Victoria · Michaela Settle · Paul Edbrooke · Hancock Victorian Plantations · Green Triangle Fire Alliance
This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem
Comments (0)