Heavier penalties will apply to people guilty of intentionally starting a bushfire and being reckless about it spreading on public land or someone else’s property.

The standard non-parole period for convicted arsonists is set to increase from five years, the Attorney General has announced.

“The tougher standard non-parole period builds on the Government’s introduction of a tougher penalty for the bushfire offence, which increased the maximum penalty from 14 to 21 years in November last year” said Attorney General Mark Speakman.

NSW Rural Fire Service Acting Commissioner Rob Rogers welcomed the reforms and called on the community to report suspicious behaviour.

“If you can, record the details of vehicles such as the make, model and registration of suspicious vehicles” the Rural Fire Service advises.

“Take note of the appearance of anyone acting suspiciously.”

Report suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. To report a fire emergency call Triple Zero (000).

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