Bushfire fuel classification fuel types map release 2.0

This map describes Australian fuel type classes and their estimated extents using the Bushfire Fuel Classification (BFC) framework of Hollis et al. (2015) and Cruz et al. (2018). The BFC is a hierarchical, structure-based classification system for fuel complexes, enabling distinct fuel extents and characterisations to be mapped directly onto fire behaviour models. The map has been generated using nationally consistent, open-source datasets, predominantly derived from remotely sensed data, to quantitatively characterise vegetation life forms, height and foliage cover. The automated production of this map allows for rapid versioning as data inputs are enhanced. This release is an updated version of the BFC fuel types release 1.0. For a detailed description of the methodology, refer to Joshi et al. (2025). This version applies the same methodology as the previous release, which integrates datasets of multiple spatial and temporal resolutions (10–500 metres). The only modification is the use of height data from Ticehurst et al. (2025) in place of the datasets from Scarth et al. (2019) and Langs et al. (2020). Incorporation of this new height product has substantially improved the segregation of fuel classes in arid regions, particularly for vegetation shorter than 5m.\nLineage: Fuel types have been created by combining height and foliage cover data using a rule-based method according to the BFC framework of Hollis et al. (2015) and Cruz et al. (2018). Cover data were taken from the woody and grass foliage cover data derived from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite imagery averaged from 2000 to 2021, as described by Donohue and Renzullo (2025). Vegetation cover profile data came from Scarth et al. (2019) and vegetation height came from Ticehurst et al. (2025), which incorporate observations from multiple optical and radar satellite-based sensors. Plantation data were included from the National Plantation Inventory (NPI) (ABARES, 2022). Croplands, Horticulture, and Wetlands were included from the Australian Land Use Mapping (ALUM) (ABARES, 2021). Sedgelands are from the National Vegetation Information System (NVIS) (DCCEEW, 2020). Spinifex is derived from multiple MODIS products, detail method is given in Joshi et al. (2025). Built-up is from the polygon footprints provided by Australian Housing Data Analytics Platform (AHDAP, 2022). Bare ground and Water are extracted from the MODIS time-series from 2000-2021, as given in Guerschman et al. (2018) and Donohue et al. (2022) respectively. \n\nThe updated height data from Ticehurst et al. (2025) is an annual product and incorporates better estimation of vegetation height across arid short vegetations specially below 5m, which the previously used data was lacking. Incorporating this height has significantly improved segregation of bushfire fuel classes across shorter vegetation.\n\nImportant Disclaimer:\nCSIRO advises that the information contained in this dataset comprises general statements and information based on scientific research. The user is advised and needs to be aware that such information may be incomplete or unable to be used in any specific situation. No reliance or actions must therefore be made on that information without seeking prior expert professional, scientific and technical advice. To the extent permitted by law, CSIRO (including its employees and consultants) excludes all liability to any person for any consequences, including but not limited to all losses, damages, costs, expenses and any other compensation, arising directly or indirectly from using this publication (in part or in whole) and any information or material contained in it.\n