Federal Highway Lane Blocked as Fire Crews Tackle Grass Fire in Canberra's North
Grass fire near Federal Highway, Canberra, under control

Emergency crews have swiftly contained a small grass fire that broke out near the Federal Highway in Canberra's northern suburbs on Saturday morning.

Emergency Response Mobilised

Fire and Rescue ACT and the ACT Rural Fire Service were dispatched to the scene near the suburb of Downer at approximately 11:00 am on January 10, 2026. According to a spokesperson for the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA), six firefighting appliances were deployed to manage the incident.

The spokesperson confirmed that the fire, which ignited between residential properties and the major roadway, was being successfully controlled. They emphasised that there was no immediate threat to life or property despite the fire's proximity to homes.

Traffic Impacts and Public Advice

The emergency operation has led to the closure of one southbound lane on the Federal Highway, with emergency vehicles occupying the lane. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and expect delays when travelling through the area.

In response to the incident, the ACT Emergency Services Agency issued an official 'stay informed' warning for the fire. Authorities are urging residents to monitor the situation through official channels.

How to Stay Updated

For the latest information on this incident and other emergencies across the Australian Capital Territory, the public should visit the official ACT ESA website at www.esa.act.gov.au.

The rapid response highlights the preparedness of local services during the summer fire season, ensuring such blazes are managed before they can escalate into greater threats.