As Australia faces another summer of elevated bushfire risk, brokers have an opportunity to offer clients proactive advice that could save lives, property, and livelihoods.
Bushfires don’t just damage buildings – they disrupt supply chains, inflate insurance premiums, and challenge employee safety and environmental compliance. By acting now, businesses can mitigate these risks and maintain resilience.
Here are eight practical steps from FM that brokers can recommend to help clients prepare for the bushfire season:
Start with a tailored emergency plan
One size does not fit all. Stress the importance of customised emergency plans that account for each business’s specific risks and operations. Plans should cover evacuation routes, clear communication strategies, and team responsibilities. Regular drills and engagement with local fire authorities ensure these plans remain actionable.
Encourage clients to assess their properties for fire hazards, such as dry vegetation, leaf build-up, or flammable materials. Clearing these hazards is a first defence against fires spreading.
When advising on property improvements, suggest fire-resistant materials for roofs, walls, and windows. This isn’t just about compliance – it’s a forward-thinking investment that significantly reduces the risks of radiant heat and ember attacks.
Emphasise to clients that routine upkeep, like cleaning gutters and removing flammable debris, makes a significant difference. It's a low-cost measure that can prevent embers from igniting.
Depending on the client’s property, creating firebreaks – cleared or non-flammable buffer zones – can help slow fire progression. This is especially useful for businesses with significant land holdings.
Beyond recommending firefighting tools such as hoses and water tanks, encourage clients to train their staff in their use. As highlighted in FM’s research, automatic sprinkler systems remain a standout investment for protecting non-fire-rated materials from radiant heat and limiting operational disruptions.
Reliable communication during a crisis is essential. Suggest backup systems like satellite phones to ensure clients remain connected even during power outages.
Insurance becomes a lifeline in cases like these. Work with clients to review and update coverage, ensuring they’re adequately protected against bushfire-related losses. This step should include a conversation about business interruption insurance, which can be crucial in mitigating the financial fallout of a disaster.