Firefighters are battling a large industrial blaze in Melbourne’s south-east after a factory fire in Dandenong South sent thick smoke and loud explosions across the suburb.
By Swikblog News Desk | Published: December 9, 2025 | Dandenong South, Victoria
A major factory fire on Kimberly Road in Dandenong South has triggered an emergency “stay informed” advice, as multiple fire crews work to contain the blaze and thick smoke drifts over nearby suburbs. Witnesses have reported a series of “loud explosions” from the industrial site, with plumes of dark smoke visible from kilometres away, including parts of Frankston, according to early local media reports.
Two factories ablaze on Kimberly Road
Local outlet Dandenong Star Journal reports that the fire has engulfed two adjoining factories on Kimberly Road, in the heart of the Dandenong South industrial estate. At least 16 fire vehicles were initially called to the scene after multiple Triple Zero callers reported the incident just after midday.
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) later escalated the response, with more than 20 appliances remaining on scene into the afternoon, as crews worked to stop the flames spreading to neighbouring businesses and storage yards.
Firefighters arrived within minutes to find the factories already well alight and have been battling the blaze from the ground and with aerial appliances. Authorities say the incident remains not yet under control, and FRV crews are expected to remain at the site for several hours.
Smoke, noise and traffic disruption
The fire has generated a large smoke column that can be seen from nearby major roads and surrounding suburbs. Residents and workers have described heavy smoke, a chemical smell and repeated explosions as materials burn inside the buildings.
An Advice – Industrial Fire alert issued via VicEmergency and shared by the ABC urges people in Dandenong South to stay informed, keep roads clear for emergency services and expect ongoing disruption in the area.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} Traffic around Kimberly Road, Hammond Road and nearby industrial streets has been heavily impacted, with emergency vehicles blocking access and smoke affecting visibility.
At this stage authorities say there is no immediate threat to the wider community, but warn that conditions can change quickly and that people should continue to monitor official updates.
What authorities are advising locals to do
Emergency information services are asking people in and around the Dandenong South industrial precinct to:
- Stay away from Kimberly Road and surrounding streets to keep access clear for fire trucks.
- Avoid smoke where possible; those with breathing issues should stay indoors and close windows and doors.
- Monitor warnings via the VicEmergency website, the VicEmergency app, ABC Emergency and local radio.
- Follow any further directions from Fire Rescue Victoria, Victoria Police and SES.
The advice message notes that smoke will be visible for some time and that crews may remain on scene well into the evening as they continue to extinguish hotspots and make the area safe.:
Industrial fire risk under scrutiny
Dandenong South is one of Melbourne’s largest industrial hubs, with warehouses, logistics depots and manufacturing plants clustered close to major transport links. Recent years have seen several high-profile industrial fires across Victoria, prompting renewed scrutiny of hazardous materials storage, sprinkler systems and emergency planning in factory precincts
Safety experts say large industrial fires can pose long-term challenges for nearby communities, including potential contamination of waterways and air-quality impacts, depending on what is stored at the site. Authorities typically carry out environmental assessments after the immediate emergency is contained.
As of the latest update, investigators have not yet confirmed the cause of the Dandenong South fire. FRV and Victoria Police are expected to conduct a full investigation once the scene is declared safe.
Where to get verified updates
Residents and businesses looking for reliable information are encouraged to follow:
- VicEmergency incident page for official warnings and maps.
- ABC Emergency for live radio and rolling coverage.:
- Local reporting from outlets such as the Dandenong Star Journal and other verified newsrooms.:
Social media footage of the fire is already circulating online, but authorities are reminding people not to enter restricted areas or fly drones near the incident, as this can interfere with firefighting operations.
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Note: This is a developing story. Details may change as authorities provide further updates. Readers are encouraged to follow official emergency channels for the latest information.
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