Illegal fireworks warning for Victorians

VICRORIANS are being warned of the risks around setting off their own fireworks as New Year’s Eve celebrations kick off.

As a regulated explosive, fireworks are only permitted to be brought or used by a licensed pyrotechnician in Victoria, on private property and in public areas.

Along with posing a danger to the people using them and those nearby, illegal fireworks have the potential to start fires and damage property.

Country Fire Authority (CFA) Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said crews responded to 50 incidents from unauthorised use of fireworks, firecrackers, flares and similar across the state in the last financial year.

“These figures are a stark reminder of the dangers fireworks pose, particularly as we head into a summer of heightened fire risk,” Mr Heffernan said.

“With the fire activity we’ve already seen across the state, it’s more important than ever for people to remain vigilant and avoid behaviours that could spark fires.

“We’re asking anyone tempted to use fireworks illegally to think about the risks to their loved ones, neighbours and communities.”

WorkSafe destroyed more than 14,000 individual fireworks in 2024 and have collected an additional 7962 individual fireworks seized or handed in by Victoria Police.

WorkSafe director of Health and Safety Sam Jenkin said the festive season is a time of joy and celebration, not for individuals to be putting themselves and others in danger.

“We continue to see serious incidents involving unauthorised fireworks every year, particularly over the summer period, and the few moments of entertainment they provide is simply not worth the potential catastrophic consequence,” Mr Jenkin said.

People caught buying, selling or using fireworks in Victoria can face thousands in fines or jail time.

The sale or illegal use of fireworks can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by heading to crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime/ and completing a confidential report.