Pioneer Bushfire Water Tanks are constructed using Australian-made, non-combustible BlueScope® steel, specifically designed to support firefighting efforts and help protect homes and properties during a bushfire event.
The structural steel body of a Pioneer Water Tank, combined with its internal liner, offers strong resistance to direct flame exposure during the passage of a bushfire front. While ZINCALUME® and COLORBOND® steel panels may experience accelerated corrosion or structural degradation following intense, prolonged flame immersion, the tank is designed to retain its structural integrity even under these extreme conditions.
One of the key advantages of a Pioneer steel water tank is that it will continue to hold water after a fire front has passed—ensuring stored water remains available for firefighting.
In situations where the tank is exposed to extreme heat, the liner may melt down to the surface of the water, but the water itself remains usable. In many cases, Pioneer bushfire water tanks remain functional for months after a fire, continuing to serve their vital role in fire preparedness and recovery.
Pioneer Water Tanks have been independently assessed for fire performance by the CSIRO in collaboration with the Bushfire CRC. These assessments included extensive bushfire simulations comparing Pioneer’s steel water tanks to poly tanks. The full report is available for download.
After a bushfire has passed through a property, water becomes critically important for stock watering and potential follow-up firefighting. While the internal liner may melt in areas above the water line, the tank structure remains intact, and the stored water below remains accessible for use.
It is important to note that water from a tank directly exposed to a fire front should not be used for human consumption, as it may contain ash, fire debris, and contaminants from the melted liner. However, the remaining water is generally suitable for short-term stock watering and firefighting purposes.
Another important advantage of Pioneer Water Tanks is their modular steel panel construction. If a fire impacts only one side of the tank, the affected panels can be individually replaced. Similarly, minor heat damage to the tank liner can often be patched, or if necessary, the liner can be fully replaced.
Your local Pioneer dealer, such as NSW Water Tanks, can assess any damage and develop a tailored recovery plan to restore your tank to full service as quickly as possible.
In contrast, poly tanks—made from petroleum-based materials—soften and fail structurally when exposed to extreme heat. This results in the complete loss of stored water, immediately halting any emergency firefighting efforts. Additionally, poly tanks can ignite and burn, potentially adding fuel to the fire and increasing the risk to surrounding property.
Since 1988, Pioneer Water Tanks has been a trusted supplier of high-quality water storage solutions across Australia—serving a wide range of applications including domestic use, farming, firefighting, and industrial projects.
It is recommended that a Pioneer Water Tanks dealer conducts an on-site assessment of any tank affected by fire to evaluate the extent of the damage. However, it’s important to note that material coating degradation and potential structural compromise can sometimes be difficult to determine without a detailed inspection.
It is strongly recommended that a Pioneer Water Tanks dealer be engaged to assess any tank affected by fire in order to determine the extent of the damage.
In cases where tanks have been severely impacted by fire, it can be challenging to accurately assess the condition of the steel coatings and the impact of extreme heat on the tank’s structural integrity. Where significant damage is identified, the tank may be considered beyond cost-effective repair, and a recommendation for full replacement may be made.
If a customer chooses to proceed with a repair against this recommendation, a “Fire Waiver” must be completed. This allows repairs to be undertaken at the discretion and liability of the tank owner, but it is important to note that the Pioneer product warranty will no longer apply to the repaired tank.
A feat of engineering excellence, the Pioneer V-LOCK® wall profile is specifically designed for long-term durability and provides enhanced internal support to the tank liner, contributing to the overall structural integrity of the tank.
Complementing this is the AQUALINER Fresh® antimicrobial tank liner, which helps to keep stored water fresher, cleaner, and healthier for longer by resisting the growth of bacteria, algae, and mould.
Some local councils or shires may require the installation of a dedicated firefighting water tank as part of the building approval process for new homes, particularly in bushfire-prone areas.
These bushfire water tanks play a vital role in supporting local fire and emergency services by increasing the availability of water during fire events.
If you’re unsure about the bushfire water tank requirements in your area, it’s best to contact your local council or shire for specific regulations and guidelines.
Pioneer Water Tanks can be configured to include dedicated bushfire storage capacity and fitted with the appropriate firefighting outlets and fittings to meet local compliance standards. NSW Water Tanks can assist with ensuring your tank meets all regional requirements.
Pioneer Bushfire Water Tanks can be fitted with a fire protection valve and a dedicated water reserve, helping to ensure that local fire authorities have access to water if your property is threatened by a bushfire (see image for example setup).
Before installing a fire protection valve or configuring a firefighting water tank, it is recommended to consult with your local shire and/or bushfire brigade to confirm the specific requirements for your area.
Bushfire Protection with Pioneer – Pioneer Water Tanks Bushfire eBook – View Here
Research and investigation into the performance of rain water tanks in bushfires involving the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre (Bushfire CRC) and the CSIRO – View Here
Bushfire CRC Issue #68 – Tanks On Trial – Performance of Rainwater Tanks in Bushfire Conditions – View Here
