'Don't be a d---head': Fire ban warning as weather conditions intensify

By Josh Hohne02:35

Victoria's Emergency Management Commissioner and Deputy Premier have just given an update on the fires.

The fire in the Grampians region has burnt at least 55,000 hectares of bushland, Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent said.

Nugent said it was a significant fire that could burn for weeks.

Fences have been damaged, livestock have been lost, and some outbuildings and sheds have been damaged by the fire.

At this stage, Nugent said no residential homes have been destroyed.

With the number of residential properties around the Grampians, Nugent said he "wouldn't be surprised" if some houses were lost.

Three relief centres remain open.

Nugent said that firefighters were expecting challenging conditions tomorrow as well.

He thanked all the volunteer firefighters who sacrificed their time with family at Christmas for the good of the community.

There are about 600 firefighters on the ground at the Grampians National Park.

About 100 firefighters from interstate are also in Victoria.

The Deputy Premier announced that funding and payments would be available for people affected by the fires.

"We can announce the Australian Victorian Government disaster assistance is now available for communities impacted by the fires," Ben Carrol said.

"The systems activated today will ensure communities can access essential supplies and accommodation in their time of need.

"We will continue to work hand in hand with the federal government to ensure all communities are impacted can get back on their feet as soon as possible."