The Labor Government has introduced a maximum life imprisonment penalty for the trafficking of methamphetamine.
A government statement said the new penalties have been implemented to reduce the supply of meth in Western Australia and break the cycle of drug-related crime.
The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill 2017, one of the first Bills introduced into the new State Parliament, will see the maximum sentence for meth trafficking increased from 25 years to life imprisonment.
Other changes to the legislation include the introduction of unlimited fines for meth traffickers - up from the current $100,000 maximum fine.
Premier Mark McGowan said thousands of WA family are affected by meth.
“Every day they endure its impacts - violence, arrests, losing houses, jobs and businesses – this needs to stop,” he said.
“I’ve met many of these families and it’s heartbreaking. Meth is an epidemic which is destroying communities. The community expects meth traffickers to be locked up for a long time. They are evil people and are responsible for tearing families apart and destroying lives.
“I will not stand idly by while this happens. By increasing the penalty for meth traffickers to life imprisonment, we are acting to significantly reduce the supply of meth in WA.
Police Minister Michelle Roberts said the reform is one of many police are taking to combat meth in the community.
“WA Police are working hard to reduce meth use by disrupting and preventing supply,” she said.
“Significant police effort is focussed on breaking drug dealing and trafficking rings, including importations.
“We’re working to boost that capacity with our 100 strong Meth Border Force, which will target major drug trafficking routes into our State.”