To minimise the risk of bushfires, we use helicopters and drones to inspect the electricity network for potential hazards that could increase fire risk.
We work in collaboration with the State Emergency Service (SES) and NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) to lessen the impact of bushfires on the electricity network and to enhance safety for our employees and the community.
Throughout the year, Ausgrid and local councils trim vegetation near powerlines to mitigate the risk of power outages, electrical fires, and power surges.
Private poles and powerlines
Our crews will assess private poles and powerlines for potential bushfire hazards. These assessments look for vegetation growing too close to wires, as well as electrical defects on poles or their fixtures that could lead to a fallen pole or an electrical fire.
Who is responsible for bushfire risks identified on private land?
Ausgrid is responsible for supplying power to the connection point on a property. Property owners are responsible for the electrical assets beyond this connection point, including private power poles, private powerlines, and pole-top fittings. It is the property owners responsibility to ensure these poles and powerlines are safely maintained. Find out more about private poles and powerlines.
How do we inform customers about our bushfire patrols and the issues we find?
We regularly communicate with our customers to raise awareness of their responsibility for maintaining private poles, powerlines, including trees and vegetation near electrical assets. We will issue defect notices when bushfire safety issues are identified. Our FAQs provide further information about bushfire inspections and defect notices.
