Firefighters will work through the night to prevent any flare-ups after bringing a bushfire in central Victoria under control.

Key points: An emergency warning was issued, but the fire was downgraded less than two hours later

An emergency warning was issued, but the fire was downgraded less than two hours later The fire came within 500 metres of homes

The fire came within 500 metres of homes Firefighters used 7 aircraft and more than 20 trucks to try to bring the blaze under control

The fire at Benloch, about 80 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, was downgraded to a watch and act alert shortly before 4:00pm.

Shortly after 4:30pm, emergency services said the fire had been brought under control.

About 8:45pm authorities further downgraded the fire to advice level.

The fire came within 500 metres of properties. ( ABC News )

The fire, which was about 25 hectares in size, was one of about 20 fires to break out in the state on Tuesday.

About 2:00pm, authorities issued an emergency warning for the Benloch fire.

The warning said the blaze was threatening homes and lives, and urged people in the area to take shelter.

The Country Fire Authority said the fire came within 500 metres of homes.

Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said firefighters used seven aircraft and more than 20 fire trucks to battle the blaze.