About 5400 people have applied to join the Country Fire Authority during the current bushfire season, Victorian Emergency Services Minister Lisa Neville revealed in parliament on Wednesday.

The figure - passed on to the minister by CFA chief Steve Warrington - emerged during a condolence motion acknowledging the impact of Victoria's bushfires and the efforts of those who have fought them.

Five men have died in the blazes, which have scorched more than 1.5 million hectares and killed many thousands of animals.

Mick Roberts died at Buchan and Fred Becker at Genoa over December 30 and 31.

David Moresi, Matt Kavanagh and Bill Slade died while working with Forest Fire Management Victoria.

Ms Neville thanked the families of Mr Moresi, Mr Kavanagh and Mr Slade - some of whom sat in parliament for the motion - for allowing them to contribute so much.

"Their work has absolutely saved lives and properties. My heart goes out to you," she told parliament.

Premier Daniel Andrews said it can be hard to find solace in the wake of the loss and heartache stemming from the fires, but comfort can be taken in the "courage and compassion" which has followed them.

He thanked firefighters, other emergency service workers and the Victorian community which launched into action to support others.

"Just as we experienced the very worst in nature, with we have see the very best in humanity," he said.

The state will be resilient, he stressed.

"We will rebuild and we will recover, because... the spirit of the Victorian people remains as strong as ever. A spirit forged in flames that will continue burning long after these fires are extinguished."

As the bushfire season continues - with about five blazes still burning - Mr Andrews urged people to remain alert and aware.

Victorian Opposition Leader Michael O'Brien said it was the human toll of the fires that cut the deepest, acknowledging the bravery of the five men killed.

"They all died putting themselves in harm's way. That takes a special kind of courage," he said.

The Victorian comments came after federal parliament dedicated its first sitting day of the year on Tuesday to the bushfires, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison labelling the season as the "Black Summer".

Mr Morrison also wrote to state and territory leaders seeking their approval of draft terms of reference for a royal commission into the devastating bushfire season.

Ms Neville said the Victorian government hasn't had an opportunity yet to fully assess the terms or provide feedback.

The Victorian coalition also appealed to the state government on Wednesday to release state-wide maps detailing levels of bushfire fuel - natural material that can burn.

Mr Andrews dismissed the suggestion, saying it would provide every arsonist in Victoria with a "to do list".

Australian Associated Press