Emergency Services Minister Rob Johnson introduced a bill to Parliament to amend the Bush Fires Act in mid-September, and this bill includes provisions to give full control of bushfire operations to FESA in the event of a major fire.

When announcing the bill, Mr Johnson said the legislation was needed to improve the fire management system in WA.

"The new laws will provide for a more coordinated and collaborative approach to fire management in WA, which will boost community safety," he said.

Under the proposed changes FESA would have the right to take control over fire operations from volunteer firefighters, local governments and even the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), if FESA officials deem it necessary.

"Fire knows no boundaries and when fire moves onto another fire agency's area of responsibility then the rules are unclear and confusing," Mr Johnson said.

"Under the new arrangements, when a major fire occurs and resources are stretched, FESA can assume control to provide an effective coordinated and collaborative approach to help ensure community safety."

Under the proposed legislation, volunteer firefighters, farmers or anyone else who fails to follow instructions from the FESA officers during a major bushfire, could be hit with a $25,000 fine.

Mr Underwood believes there is nothing wrong with the existing model of firefighting within WA and that FESA should be focusing on fire prevention and damage mitigation programs.

FESA were unable to comment due to the progression of the bill through the Upper House.

Read full story in this week's Farm Weekly.