The 2026 autumn firewood collection season in Victoria is open from Sunday March 1 to Saturday June 30.
Due to recent bushfires and ongoing recovery works, some firewood collection areas may change to ensure safe access and collection.
Once the suitability of wood from fire management operations has been assessed, firewood will be made available to the community in designated safe areas.
Firewood collection in Victoria
Firewood for personal use is free but limited in supply. Availability varies by location and season. Maps showing designated collection areas are published annually at the start of each season. The official determination of collection areas and any amendments are published in the government gazette before the season opens.
Availability of firewood
Firewood availability is not guaranteed. Supply may vary due to weather, operational activities, or forest conditions. Some areas may open later as more wood becomes available, while others may close at short notice. Firewood typically comes from:
* Natural tree falls;
* hazard tree removals;
* planned burn operations; and
* storm and recovery activities.
Most firewood is green and needs eight to 12 months to dry before it is suitable for burning. Because supply is limited, priority access may apply for local residents or communities that rely heavily on firewood. In some areas, collectors may be required to prove residency.
Plan ahead and explore energy options
People who rely on firewood as their primary source of heating and cooking are encouraged to plan their supply early, use firewood efficiently, and explore their energy options.
Safety and sustainability
For your safety:
* Avoid collecting during or after heavy rainfall to prevent getting bogged;
* check weather conditions, warnings, and Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency website or app;
* do not enter forests on days rated Catastrophic for fire danger;
* watch for overhead hazards, including falling branches when parking or collecting; and
* obey all road and track closures and on-site safety instructions.
Firewood collection is managed to protect forest health, wildlife habitat, and long-term ecosystem sustainability. For more information on how firewood is sustainably managed in Victoria, refer to the Sustainable firewood management guidelines.
To see regional specific information visit ffm.vic.gov.au.