Wind change fans blazes as Sydney hit by hazardous air quality – as it happened

Almost 3,000 firefighters deployed across New South Wales as more than 80 bushfires continue to burn. This blog is now closed

" Morrison rejects calls for more bushfire help, saying volunteer firefighters 'want to be there'
" Australia is choking on smoke - so are air purifiers the answer?
" Van Badham: I marched against John Howard but he showed leadership in a way Scott Morrison is refusing to

9.00am GMT

We'll be leaving the blog here for tonight, here's a recap of what happened today:

8.54am GMT

Today I asked PM how long volunteer firies are supposed to continue without pay, while some crowdfund for food/water. He said the govt gives everything they're asked for, and firies "want to be there"

If you're an RFS volunteer, my DMs/emails are open. https://t.co/HO9WVonJXS