13/05/05
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance has praised amendments to the Criminal Code that will support the rights of farmers and landowners.
Changes made to the act of trespass within the Criminal Code will come into force on May 31.
Mr Chance said that under the changes, the act of trespass had been redefined to include entering or being in a place without the consent of the owner, occupier or person in control of the place, as well as remaining in the place after being requested by a person in authority to leave.
“A person who commits trespass will now be liable to face a maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment or a fine of $12,000,” he said.
“It is expected that the increased penalty for trespass will act as a significant deterrent.”
The Minister said with increased penalties, trespassers should take serious notice of signage on farms that made it clear to people entering that they were trespassing.
“People entering livestock properties without the owner’s consent create serious biosecurity and animal welfare risks,” he said.
“The Gallop Government is commited to protecting Western Australia’s unique environment by adopting strict laws to enforce biosecurity.”
Mr Chance encouraged farmers to become aware of their rights under the new trespassing laws and to be well advised of the most appropriate course of action should there be an illegal entry on to their land.
Minister's office: 9213 6700
