Prescribed burning in Western Australia is a hot topic—its a complex and deeply felt issue.

With climate change driving more frequent and severe bushfires, we need to reconsider our approach to managing fire—not just for our communities, but for the incredible biodiversity that makes WA so unique.

We believe there is a better way.

Right now the prescribed burning practice in WA is having devastating impacts on nature:

• Old-growth Tingle forests are being burnt—these ancient trees are collapsing from the intensity of prescribed burns 
• Peatlands (a Threatened Ecological Community) in areas like Walpole, Nornalup, Mt Franklin, William Bay are being damaged and becoming toxic
• Critical habitat for endangered species like the Black Cockatoos and Western Ringtail Possums is being destroyed

We must find a better way to protect life, nature and culture.

One thing is clear: First Nations voices must be at the table. Any review or change to fire management must be led in partnership with Traditional Owners, who have cared for Country for tens of thousands of years. The government also needs to step up—with more funding, and better resources for early detection and rapid suppression.

WA Forest Alliance, alongside First Nations leaders and local conservation groups, is leading the call for change. We want to work with all levels of government — including the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions— to get better outcomes for nature and community.

Change starts with putting Traditional Owners and locals at the heart of decision-making, and properly resourcing rapid detection and suppression strategies that respond to the real risks of a changing climate.

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