Old fire methods putting animals at risk

Outdated and unsophisticated approaches to bushfire fuel reduction is putting native plants and animals at risk, a state parks authority claims.

The claims are in line with a major review into bushfire fuel management in Victoria that found a more "community-minded" approach is needed.

As a result of the review, fuel reduction will focus on high-risk areas rather than the current model that must see five per cent of public land burnt each year.

Victorian National Parks Associations fire spokesperson Phil Ingamells said it was sensible to change the way fire reduction was approached in the state. "Land managers have been forced to burn remote areas such as the Mallee in attempts to reach the five per cent target," he said.

"Birds like the rare Mallee Emu Wren and the remarkable Mallee Fowl are now in trouble."

Changes to fuel reduction targets were supported by the Bushfire Royal Commission after Black Saturday.