A new AI-powered fire detection system is helping firefighters respond faster to bushfires across South Australia, with almost 90 unplanned fires detected since its rollout across more than one million hectares in the state’s south east.

The system uses smart cameras installed across the Green Triangle forestry region and surrounding Limestone Coast communities. Funded by a £1.7+ million investment from the Malinauskas Government, the technology was introduced in 2023 to improve early fire detection and response.

Since going live, the network has identified 87 unplanned fires. Most were recorded during the 2024 to 2025 fire danger season, with a further 12 detected in the most recent season. Causes have included lightning strikes, vehicle fires, electrical faults and escaped burn-offs.

The cameras are operated by the Green Triangle Fire Alliance and use a mix of AI, ultra-HD 360-degree imagery and satellite data. Each alert is reviewed by trained analysts who help confirm fire location, size and potential risk to nearby communities, infrastructure and forestry assets.

Once verified, information is passed quickly to emergency services, helping crews respond earlier when fires are still small and easier to contain. 

While the fire danger season is ending in parts of South Australia, authorities are reminding communities that fire risk remains year-round and vigilance is still essential.

Although this system is currently deployed in Australia, it reflects a growing global trend in the use of AI and remote sensing to support early fire detection. In the UK, where wildfire risk is also increasing due to hotter, drier summers, similar technology could play a growing role in helping land managers, fire services and local authorities identify and respond to incidents more quickly, particularly in rural and woodland areas.

Register your Interest for the Fire Safety Event 2027 | NEC Birmingham | 27-29 April 2027: The Fire Safety Event.

Keep an eye out for updates on The Fire Safety Event Australia 2026...

Subscribe to Fire Safety Digital for monthly updates.