Fire Crews Control 23-Hectare Altona Grasslands Blaze Near Homes

Firefighters brought a large grass fire in Altona under control at 6.15pm on Sunday after it burned 23 hectares of land at Laverton Grasslands.

The incident unfolded on a day when residents in Altona and Altona Meadows received a Watch and Act alert because the fire sat only 30 to 50 metres from houses. The blaze began in grasslands off Purnell Street and moved north toward Kororoit Creek Road, prompting emergency crews to focus first on protecting homes closest to the edge.

How the afternoon unfolded

Callers to Triple Zero reported the fire at 3.49pm. Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA units arrived to find separate areas burning across a 2km radius. One section was contained early, yet other pockets continued to advance. Four aircraft joined ground crews to slow the spread, and train services on the Werribee Line stopped at Westona station while crews worked nearby. Residents living directly beside the grasslands were advised to move two or more streets away, while those further back were told to stay inside, close windows and doors, and avoid using air conditioners.

The fire carried added risk because it travelled through open grasslands that can shift direction with wind changes. Crews reported steady progress through the afternoon, knocking down one active area while aircraft dropped water on remaining fronts. By early evening the main threat had been reduced, though spot fires still needed attention.

Next steps for Altona residents

Crews stayed on site for several hours after containment to finish extinguishing hot spots. Victoria Police and Fire Rescue Victoria investigators will examine the scene because the fire has been classified as suspicious. Anyone living near the grasslands should continue to follow updates from emergency services and keep clear of the area until the all-clear is given. The response showed how quickly local grasslands can ignite and reach homes when conditions allow rapid spread.