As climate models project a severely increased fire risk in southeastern Australia (H. G. Clarke et al. Int. J. Wildland Fire 20, 550–562; 2011), we urgently need to put a stop to social processes that are amplifying our risk from bush fires (R. P. Crompton et al. Wea. Climate Soc. 2, 300–310; 2010). More thoughtful land use and planning could curb the destruction they cause in and around cities.

Interviews with residents following the recent fires in Sydney echoed those after the devastating Black Saturday bush fires in the state of Victoria in 2009 (J. Whittaker et al. Int. J. Wildland Fire 22, 841–849; 2013). These residents likewise complained that government restrictions prevented them from clearing trees on their land as a fire break and that suburbia continues to expand into untamed bush land without due preparedness and protection.

The recent blazes in Sydney occurred earlier in the fire season than usual, prompting speculation about a possible link with climate change.