New Year's Eve celebrations across Australia were overshadowed by a series of accidents involving fireworks, resulting in injuries to multiple people, including two young children. Emergency services reported a substantial increase in callouts as revellers welcomed 2026.
Spike in Emergency Incidents
Paramedics in several states were kept exceptionally busy as the clock struck midnight. Ambulance Victoria reported attending 69 fireworks-related incidents in the hours surrounding the new year, a sharp rise from the 45 incidents recorded the previous year. The service's state commander, Libby Murphy, described the surge as a "significant jump" that placed considerable strain on resources.
In New South Wales, the situation was similarly concerning. NSW Ambulance responded to at least 30 people injured by fireworks, with incidents ranging from serious burns to traumatic injuries from explosions. Authorities confirmed that two of the victims were children, highlighting the grave risks posed by improper fireworks handling.
Specific Incidents and Injuries
One of the most serious cases occurred in Sydney, where a man in his 20s suffered severe hand injuries after a firework exploded prematurely. He was transported to Royal North Shore Hospital in a serious condition. In a separate and deeply distressing incident in Queensland, a young girl sustained serious burns to her face and chest after a fireworks mishap. She was rushed to Queensland Children's Hospital for urgent treatment.
Other reported injuries across the nation included burns to hands, arms, and legs, as well as eye injuries from flying debris. The incidents were not confined to private gatherings; several occurred at public displays or in suburban streets where illegal fireworks were being used.
Authorities Issue Safety Warnings
In the wake of the injuries, emergency services and health officials have reiterated urgent safety warnings. They emphasised that fireworks are explosives and should only be handled by trained professionals in controlled settings. The public is strongly advised to attend organised public displays rather than attempting to use fireworks privately.
"Leave fireworks to the experts," urged a spokesperson for NSW Ambulance, echoing the sentiment of all state services. They pointed out that the injuries treated ranged from painful burns requiring lengthy rehabilitation to life-altering traumatic amputations. The callouts also diverted critical ambulance resources from other potential medical emergencies across cities.
The incidents have prompted fresh calls from some medical professionals and safety advocates for a review of fireworks regulations and an increase in public education campaigns about the dangers they pose, particularly in the lead-up to major celebrations.
