In 2024, the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS) program received funding from the Minderoo Foundation. This funding has enabled improvements to the technology behind the Fire Danger Ratings.

This included a dedicated mobile app for the Fuel State Editor (FSE) Observer process, a vital tool for fire and land management agencies across Australia. Until now, grass fuel observations had to rely on the Fuel State Editor Web Platform, which requires internet access and was not ideal for remote field observations.

The new mobile app was released on Android and Apple devices in March 2025, allowing users to capture grass fuel state data directly in the field when there is limited or no internet connectivity. Observations are then uploaded when the device is back in signal range or connects to the internet.

This innovation means:

• faster, easier data collection in the field
• no more connectivity issues
• it eliminates the need for manual steps that often delay data entry in remote locations and take up valuable observer time
• greater participation in grass fuel monitoring.

Accurate grass fuel data is essential for fire danger ratings and preparedness. By streamlining the process, this is saving valuable time for observers and improving the quality of information that helps keep communities safe.

The FSE Observer process itself is designed to be user-friendly, consisting of a few simple steps:

Those interested in becoming observers can contact their jurisdictional AFDRS User Manager to get started. Once onboard, individuals can easily contribute to a more accurate fire danger rating system, helping to improve communication to communities at risk of bushfire. If you are already an Observer, you can go to the relevant app store and download the app:

• https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.gov.nsw.rfs.afdrsfseobserver&hl=en_AU&pli=1
• https://apps.apple.com/au/app/afdrs-fse-observer/id6738343803

Training material for users already with accounts can be found here: https://www.fdv.afdrs.org.au/help/30

In the lead up to the summer season, it is also a good time to refresh yourself on AFDRS. Helpful material can be accessed here:

• Training resources: https://afac.com.au/AFDRS-training

• Technical resources: https://afac.com.au/technical-resources

• Community resources: https://afac.com.au/community-resources

For more information, or if you are unsure about how to contact your jurisdiction’s AFDRS User Manager, please email afdrs@afac.com.au.