Vulnerable Use and Bushfire Emergency Plans (BEPs) ​

Under State Planning Policy 3.7, additional bushfire protection measures are required for developments categorised as Vulnerable Use. A Bushfire Emergency Plan (BEP)—including an evacuation diagram and response procedures—must be prepared to support safe decision-making and protect occupants who may be at greater risk during a bushfire.

What is a Bushfire Emergency Plan (BEP)?

A Bushfire Emergency Plan (BEP) outlines the emergency response arrangements for a development during a bushfire event. It includes clear procedures for evacuation, shelter-in-place strategies (if applicable), roles and responsibilities, and a site-specific diagram showing exits, assembly areas, and access points.

A BEP is often prepared alongside a Bushfire Management Plan (BMP), which forms the foundation of a site’s bushfire planning response. While the BEP focuses on occupant safety and emergency procedures, the BMP outlines how the site physically reduces bushfire risk through measures such as water supply, access standards, and vegetation management. The strategies identified in the BMP directly inform the emergency planning contained in the BEP, ensuring a cohesive and compliant response to bushfire risk under State Planning Policy 3.7.

When do I need a BEP?

In Western Australia, a BEP is required when a proposed development is classed as Vulnerable Use. This typically includes:

  • Child care centres

  • Aged care or nursing homes

  • Schools or education facilities

  • Religious gathering places (e.g. Church or Mosque)

  • Tourist accommodation (e.g. holiday parks, campgrounds)

  • Medical centres or facilities housing occupants with limited mobility

These uses trigger additional requirements because the people on-site may not be able to respond quickly or independently during a bushfire emergency.

Bushfire Emergency Plans can only be prepared and certified by an assessor accredited to BPAD Level 3 under the Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) scheme. Bushfire Smart is proud to have an in-house Level 3 practitioner—one of the limited number accredited at this level in Western Australia—qualified to prepare BEPs that meet all statutory requirements.

Preparation by a BPAD Level 3 Practitioner

Unsure what you need?

Get in touch to request a quote and find out if your proposed development meets the criteria for Vulnerable Use. We'll help you determine what's required and prepare a compliant Bushfire Emergency Plan tailored to your site.