Improving the accuracy of the fire behaviour metric 'fireline intensity' for Australian fuels

This project concept was submitted by NSW Rural Fire Service.

This project will review existing literature to identify gaps in combustion data for key Australian fuels, then conduct experiments to measure heat release, combustion efficiency and smouldering characteristics. These findings will be integrated into the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS) with support from national technical and operational teams.

The project will enhance fire danger forecasting, support safer and more effective fire management and reduce unnecessary restrictions on land use. It will also improve community safety, inform policy and planning, and provide valuable data for future fire behaviour and climate research. This research will strengthen national resilience to bushfires and support innovation in fire science and emergency management.