It is extremely disappointing when houses for Tasmanians in need are the subject of arson attacks.
In recent months, there has been a series of incidents that have raised concerns about this issue in the Tasmanian community, and we are calling on Tasmanians to help us reduce these types of incidents, wherever possible.
Houses that are subject to arson attacks not only endanger the lives of residents, neighbours and responders, resources are then required to be diverted to repair houses, instead of building new ones.
As at 28 February 2019, there have been 20 Housing Tasmania properties subject to arson attacks, incurring a cost of $1.037 million on insurance and repair costs (financial year to date).
Over the last 5 years there have been 176 arson attacks – an average of 35 per year.
Every deliberate instance of arson carries consequences for Tasmanians in need, taking stock out of the pool of houses until they are rebuilt.
Any person convicted of the crime of arson against a public housing property will be excluded from applying for, or residing in public housing.
A reward of up to $10,000 is provided for information that leads to the conviction of anyone convicted of burning down a Housing Tasmania property.
To help us combat this type of willful damage that deprives Tasmanians in need of a roof over their heads, I urge anyone who has information about an arson attack to help the community and contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.