📜 Arson Legislation Amendment Bill 2009

Assented toLABill 8514 October 2009

The Arson Legislation Amendment Bill 2009 amends the Bush Fires Act 1954 and The Criminal Code to strengthen arson laws. It introduces a duty of care for those controlling ignition sources or fires and increases penalties for arson-related offences, particularly those causing damage to vegetation.

Impact

This bill affects individuals and businesses responsible for managing fire risks, including landowners, farmers, and those conducting activities involving ignition sources. It aims to reduce the incidence of arson and bushfires, protecting communities and the environment.

Key Changes

["Introduces a duty of care for persons in control of ignition sources or fires to prevent damage to property, including vegetation.", "Increases the penalty for offences under section 32 of the Bush Fires Act 1954 to imprisonment for 20 years.", "Increases the penalty for arson under section 444 of The Criminal Code to life imprisonment.", "Creates a new offence under section 445A of The Criminal Code for failing to fulfill the duty of care regarding fires causing damage to vegetation, punishable by 15 years imprisonment."]