Natural disasters declared in Australian bushfire areas

Natural disaster zones have been declared for bushfire-ravaged areas of NSW's central coast and south west.

Fires swept through parts of Junee and the Brisbane Water National Park on the central coast at the weekend, gutting eight homes and destroying 38,000ha of bush and farmland.

The declaration means the local government areas of Gosford, Junee and Upper Lachlan are eligible for extra assistance under the Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements.

Acting NSW Premier John Watkins, Emergency Services Minister Tony Kelly and Rural Fire Service Commissioner Phil Koperberg will today join Acting Prime Minister Mark Vaile on a visit to devastated areas around Junee.

Mr Watkins will thank local volunteers and inspect relief efforts available to residents, farmers and businesses.

"People across NSW want to offer a big thank you to everyone who's been involved in the battle against these fires," Mr Watkins said in a statement.

"These men and women give up their time to protect lives and property and we all owe them a huge debt of gratitude."

A 21-year-old volunteer firefighter remains in a serious condition in hospital after suffering third-degree burns to 60 per cent of his body as he battled a blaze on his property near Junee.

Five homes were lost to the flames, which killed around 15,000 sheep and 88 cattle.

Mr Watkins said the Department of Community Services would work with families whose homes were destroyed and could be eligible for an immediate A$10,000 ($10,938.52) grant.

Mr Kelly said 400 firefighters were strengthening containment lines outside the township of Ilabo.

"While the fire is now contained, the weather forecast is for hot and windy conditions again this weekend," he said.

"That's why it's important people adhere to all safety messages from the Rural Fire Service to try and prevent further outbreaks."

- AAP