Bushfire arson

Posted on 23/12/2024

Crime Stoppers South Australia is providing opportunity for everyone to play their part in preventing devastating bushfires caused by deliberate acts of arson. Bushfire arson is a serious crime that threatens lives, destroys homes and devastates our natural environment.

Our latest campaign educates the community on how to identify and report suspicious behaviour that could lead to bushfires. Together, we can help police to stop arsonists in their tracks and protect our beautiful state. Bushfire arson is an ongoing threat across South Australia, particularly in high-risk areas such as the Adelaide Hills, South East, Kangaroo Island, and other regional and rural areas.

Recent arrests for arson-related offenses and the identification of high-risk individuals on watchlists highlight the need for vigilance. Bushfires caused by arson are entirely preventable—but only if we all take action.

What is bushfire arson?

Bushfire arson involves deliberately lighting a fire that can cause harm to people, animals, or property. Some arsonists even start with “practice” fires, lighting smaller patches of vegetation to test how fast and far the flames spread.

Sharing information that helps police to identify arsonists before their actions escalate can save lives and prevent irreversible damage.

How can you help?

Being alert to suspicious activity and reporting it quickly can make all the difference. Look out for:

• Unusual behaviour: Someone loitering or acting strangely in or near bushfire-prone areas.
• Vehicles parked oddly: Cars or motorbikes parked near bushland or in unusual locations. Take note of the make, model, colour, and license plate.
• Signs of smaller fires: Burnt patches, small fires, or scorch marks, which may indicate someone testing fire behaviour.

How to report suspicious activity

Crime Stoppers provides a safe and anonymous way to report what you know. You never have to give your name, and your information is passed to authorities to act on.

Here’s what to do:

• For fires already burning, call 000 immediately.
• If you witness suspicious activity in progress, call 131 444 to report it to SA Police.
• If you have information about suspected arsonists, contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a tip – anonymously if you’d prefer – online via our secure reporting page.

Every report counts. Even small details can make a big difference in stopping bushfire arson.

Why your help matters

Bushfires have devastating consequences for our state. They endanger lives, destroy property, harm wildlife and cost millions of dollars in recovery efforts. While natural causes such as lightning strikes can’t always be avoided, bushfires caused by arson are 100% preventable—if we all work together.

Your vigilance and willingness to report what you see could save lives. Let’s work as a community to stop arson and protect South Australia.

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