Arsonists face life imprisonment under new legislation

Arsonists could face up to life imprisonment under sweeping new laws to be introduced today in State Parliament by the Liberal-National Government.

Attorney General Christian Porter and Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson said the laws would ensure arson was treated as one of the most serious criminal offences in Western Australia.

"We only have to look at the tragic Victorian bushfires earlier this year to understand the widespread devastation arsonists can cause," Mr Porter said.

"The State Government has worked hard to develop laws that target, and appropriately penalise, all possible arson-related offences.

"Our legislation will significantly increase penalties and ensure the laws of this State recognise the inherent danger arsonists cause."

The Attorney General said the legislation would increase - from 14 years to 20 years - the maximum jail-term for lighting a fire where it is likely damage would be done to persons or property will increase.

Where the person wilfully destroys or damages property by fire, the maximum penalty will increase from 14 years to life imprisonment.

Mr Johnson also warned would-be offenders the new legislation clearly defined the term 'property' to include vegetation.

"This means that if a person wilfully lights a fire that damages any sort of property or bushland, they will be sentenced under the new laws," he said.

"The new legislation will also create an entirely new offence which makes it clear that if a person does not take reasonable care when in control of a fire or ignition source and someone is injured or killed as a result, the offender will be held to account."

Mr Johnson said the State Government aimed to have the legislation passed before summer.

Attorney General's office - 9220 5050

Emergency Services Minister's office  - 9222 9211