A South Coast man faces trial this week for allegedly burning down his own property in an attempt to claim insurance as a victim in the 2020 Black Summer Bushfires.

Darren Colquhoun of Barringella received more than $500,000 in payouts from NRMA Insurance, as well as a number of charities including St Vincent de Paul, throughout 2020. Police will argue Colquhoun deliberately lit the to his home before contacting emergency services. 

Colquhoun is facing 14 charges, including one count of dishonestly for gain, and damaging property by fire. The trial will continue on Monday June 19.