$50,000 reward for help to catch an arsonist

• People asked to report any suspicious behaviour near bushfires

• About half all bushfires are believed to be deliberately or recklessly lit

A spike in the number of bushfires suspected to have been deliberately lit has prompted a reminder that a $50,000 reward is available for information that helps convict an arsonist.

With Western Australia in the midst of a severe bushfire season that has already seen dozens of homes and sheds lost, Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis and Police Minister

Liza Harvey today urged people to report any suspicious activity. 

Mr Francis said while WA Police and firefighting agencies were working together to help prevent deliberately lit bushfires, the community could play a crucial role in tracking down arsonists.

"The work of just one arsonist can threaten lives, destroy countless homes and direct resources away from other firefighting and rescue activities," he said.

"The $50,000 reward is available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of people who deliberately light fires.

"If you have seen something or know anything about a suspicious fire, help catch arsonists before they strike by reporting what you know to police."

Police Minister Liza Harvey said people were being reminded to report any suspicious behaviour to Police Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

"Arson is a serious crime and poses a major threat to the community," Mrs Harvey said.

"The penalties for arson are severe, with life imprisonment the maximum sentence for anyone who wilfully destroys or damages property by fire."

The reward scheme is co-ordinated by WA Police, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), the Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Insurance Council of Australia.

         Fact File

• Arson costs Australian taxpayers $1.6billion each year

• Between December 1, 2012 and March 31, 2013, about 1,600 bushfires in WA were deemed to be deliberately lit, suspicious or the cause could not be determined

• DFES runs a free, confidential education and support program for children between the ages of 6-16 that have been involved in fire lighting.  For further information, contact 9395 9488 or email jaffa@dfes.wa.gov.au

• If you suspect someone of arson, call Police Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

Emergency Services Minister's office - 6552 6500

Police Minister's office - 6552 5900