Australia's latest firefighting recruit is available around the clock, can monitor millions of hectares at once and could alert crews to a blaze within minutes of its outbreak.

Fire-spotting artificial intelligence technology will be deployed in 22 locations around NSW forests as part of a $1.4 million investment announced by the state government on Saturday.

The AI-powered cameras will form the largest early detection fire network in Australia.

The technology is also being used to monitor parts of Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania.

Forestry experts said the technology could not stop fires starting but would provide more comprehensive monitoring and could prevent catastrophic outcomes.

The tech rollout will follow the NSW Black Summer bushfire inquiry that recommended greater i

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