NSW to increase sentence for bushfire arsonists

MEMBER for Dubbo Troy Grant has welcomed the NSW Government’s proposal to introduce tougher sentences for arsonists as the state continues to be gripped by drought.

Mr Grant said, under the new law, anyone caught deliberately starting a bushfire will face a maximum sentence of 21 years imprisonment – up from 14 years.

“We are putting firebugs on notice, if you do the wrong thing, you will face the consequences,” he said.

The NSW Rural Fire Service has more than 150 highly-skilled investigators who work alongside the NSW Police Force to investigate arson. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.