Littering Will Cost You More
Release date:
26 Oct 2011 Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard is hopeful the Government’s decision to introduce harsher financial penalties for people who litter will prevent pollution and help keep our suburbs, parks, and foreshores cleaner.
“Whilst most of us are careful not to litter, the annual cost to clean up litter in WA is estimated to be more than $20 million,” said Dr Woollard.
“The Government’s new zero tolerance policy will make littering more expensive”. said Dr Woollard.
A new Bill will soon be introduced into State Parliament. The Bill will amend the Litter Act 1979, substantially increasing penalties for littering. The Bill will enable regulations to be introduced detailing a new offence of ‘littering that creates a public risk’.
The new laws will introduce a zero tolerance policy on potentially dangerous littering behaviour that poses a safety risk to people, property or animals. Such items could include syringes and lit cigarettes.
With a large part of the electorate bordered by the Swan River and used daily by pedestrians and cyclists, of significant concern is the amount of broken glass littering these pathways.
For people who litter cigarette butts, the fine will increase from $75 to an on the spot fine of $200, and general littering fines will rise from $1,000 to $5,000.
“The risk from a lit cigarette being carelessly tossed away in summer is potentially enormous. Fire and Emergency Services Authority estimates between 8% and 12% of fires are started by cigarette butts. These fires can destroy lives and properties so it is important we all take responsibility for reducing the risk of fire,” said Dr Woollard.
“I congratulate the Government on their approach to keep WA clean and safe.”
Media enquiries: Dr Janet Woollard on 0419 907 999
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