Agriculture | March 25, 2022

Labor, Independents and Greens team up to stop tougher farm trespass fines

Legislation for on-the-spot fines for farm trespass has finally passed state parliament after two years of delay by the Andrews Government.

Amendments to double the maximum fine for illegal farm invasion and close a loophole on licensed river frontages have been blocked by Labor, the Greens and Independent MPs.

The Nationals proposed two amendments to the Livestock Management Amendment (Animal Activism) Bill 2021 to double the maximum fine for individuals in line with New South Wales’ hefty penalty scheme – which is the toughest in the nation – and protect a farmer’s river frontage land.

But on Wednesday, Labor teamed up with the Greens and Independents in Parliament’s Upper House to block the changes and instead implement a fine for serious breaches that’s among the lowest in the nation.

The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said while these laws have finally passed state parliament, they needed to go further.

“Doubling the maximum penalty would have sent a strong message to anyone considering trespassing on a farmer’s private property that Victoria won’t tolerate illegal farm invasions,” Ms Kealy said.

“The Andrews Labor Government has been dragged kicking and screaming to this position by pressure from the farming community and The Nationals. 

“Labor was turning a blind eye to illegal farm invasion in Victoria, until The Nationals politically and publicly drove the agenda to strengthen farm trespass laws.”

During the final debate this week, Labor admitted it failed to consult with farmers when setting the penalties for fines and jail time – saying they “left it up to the department”.

“The Andrews Government’s actions are not that of a government who stands up for our law-abiding farmers,” Ms Kealy said

“Victoria has witnessed some of the country’s most aggressive farm invasions with families and workers left traumatised as a result.

“Victoria’s agriculture industry contributes billions to our regional, state and national economy and together with my National Party colleagues, I will continue to support our hardworking farmers so they can be better protected from harassment at the hands of illegal animal activists.”

 

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