Copper thieves who risk lives by cutting telecommunications and plunging deadly intersections into darkness could now face life in jail under proposed new legislation welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.  

Public consultation has now opened as the Crisafulli Government works to tackle rising metal thefts, including copper wire, which have seen criminals not only endanger their lives, but the lives of others in the community. 

Mr Last said the proposed legislation demonstrated how seriously the Crisafulli Government was taking the theft of copper wire.  

“We’ve seen drivers forced to navigate pitch black intersections on some of the deadliest intersections of our highway while copper cabling has also been cut from emergency generators and telecommunications infrastructure in these despicable acts,” Mr Last said.  

“Under the proposed legislation criminals who target essential key infrastructure where the life or health of a person is endangered or the conduct occurs during or in the lead-up to a natural disaster will face up to 25 years imprisonment.” 

“As the Premier said earlier this year these are the lowest of acts and our government is taking action with penalties to reflect the seriousness of these crimes and the cost they impose to taxpayers to undertake repairs.” 

“Make no mistake if you commit these low acts that have the potential to endanger other community members, particularly in their hour of need or when they are driving home after dark on a national highway, you should face the full weight of the law.” 

Mr Last said following the introduction into parliament the proposed legislation was now up for consultation and encouraged anyone affected by these crimes to make their voices heard.  

“As with any new legislation it’s important the mechanisms and outcomes achieve what our communities expect which is why we encourage anyone affected by these sorts of crimes to make their voices heard during the public consultation process.”