LaCoO3 perovskite type oxides were successfully prepared using microwave-assisted method, characterized by TG/DTA, XRD, XPS and H2-TPR and their catalytic activities for combustion of benzene were determined. Almost of catalyst showed perovskite crystalline phase and 13-84 nm particle size. LaCoO3 catalysts prepared by microwave-assisted method showed the highest activity and the conversion reached almost 100% at 360 degrees C. In the LaCoO3-type catalyst, the partial substitution of Sr into site A enhanced the catalytic activity on the combustion of benzene. The higher amount of the chemisorbed oxygen was, the better the performance of the combustion catalyst. The catalytic activity of perovskite-type oxides showed a good relationship with the results of H2-TPR and XPS measurement.