Calls to put GPS trackers on known arsonists

Putting GPS trackers on known arsonists to prevent bushfires is a decision for police, the Victorian government says.

The United Firefighters Union wants to put the devices on arsonists to stop them lighting deadly and destructive bushfires.

"Any mechanism that prevents them engaging in that activity can only be in the community's benefit," union secretary Peter Marshall told the Herald Sun on Monday.

The newspaper reports only one convicted arsonist is being monitored by a GPS device, despite laws allowing the practice being in effect for at least three years.

Four serious sex offenders with histories of arson are also monitored.

"This technology and how it's applied to identified arsonists is a relatively new initiative," Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan told reporters.

"It's a court-based program that Victoria Police is using.

"I think what's important is the government acts on the advice of Victoria Police."

Police suspect a number of bushfires around Victoria this summer were deliberately lit.