Does home insurance cover fire and bushfire?
Fire — including bushfire — is a core, standard inclusion on Australian home and contents insurance. Given the country’s bushfire exposure, it’s one of the most significant risks insurers price for.
While cover itself is standard, where you live and your bushfire risk rating can substantially affect your premium.
Typically covered
- •Damage to building and contents from fire, including bushfire and grassfire
- •Smoke damage from a fire
- •Often, additional costs like temporary accommodation if your home is uninhabitable
Typically not covered
- •Damage during a waiting/embargo period after a fire warning is issued (for new policies)
- •Homes already under immediate threat when cover is taken out
- •Deliberately lit fires by the policyholder
- •Scorching from a controlled domestic fire that isn’t a genuine fire event (varies)
How it works in Australia
In Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) zones, premiums can be significantly higher — sometimes double the standard rate. Insurers also typically apply a 48–72 hour embargo on new policies once a fire warning is active in your area, so don’t leave cover until the last minute.
General information only — cover, limits and exclusions vary by insurer. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before deciding.
Frequently asked
Is bushfire covered by home insurance?+
Yes — bushfire and grassfire damage is a standard inclusion on Australian home and contents policies, though premiums reflect your bushfire risk.
Can I take out cover when a bushfire is approaching?+
Usually not effectively — insurers apply a waiting period (often 48–72 hours) on new policies once a fire warning is active, and won’t cover homes already under threat.