Each year the wilful and deliberate lighting of fires causes significant damage to people, property, flora and fauna in Western Australia (WA).
DFES is committed to reducing the number of deliberately lit fires and works closely with other fire services, government departments, the insurance industry and Western Australia Police (WAPOL) to detect and assist in the identification, apprehension and conviction of arsonists.
From July 2013 to June 2014, 1085 arson related charges were laid by WAPOL under the Bush Fires Act (1954) and Section 444 of the Criminal Code (PDF - 48 KB).
On 16 December 2009 the Bush Fires Act (1954) and the Criminal Code were amended to increase penalties and clarify the definition of property regarding charges involving arson. Property now means personal or real estate property including crown land and includes the bush and fauna.
Reporting suspicious behaviour and firelighting
Rewards of up to $50,000 are offered for reporting information that leads to the identification and conviction of arsonists. The rewards are made available through the State Government and the Insurance Council of Australia’s Arson Reward Scheme and is coordinated by WA Police, DFES, the Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Insurance Council of Australia.
DFES promotes the Arson Reward Scheme and actively encourages people with knowledge of suspicious persons or firelighters to report this vital information to Police. Please complete the online form, or ring Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Additional Coverage
