GRAFFITI CONTROL (MISCELLANEOUS) AMENDMENT BILL

Second Reading

Adjourned debate on second reading.

(Continued from 3 April 2012.)

The Hon. T.A. FRANKS (15:28): I rise to indicate that the Greens have some concerns about this bill. We certainly do not support some of the previous contributions made indicating a position where penalties on drivers licences and so on in terms of an approach to graffiti are a useful or viable way of approaching this issue. The Greens have concerns that punishments should fit crimes. In fact, we think this bill continues the previous Rann government's rhetoric of tough on crime and law and order at the expense of reason and good sense.

Graffiti is a social issue, and it is a challenging social issue, but some of the measures that have previously been put forward by private members, and then in some part reflected in this bill, are neither constructive nor conducive to real justice in this area. We would point to the fact that this will also place undue red tape burdens on small businesses. It is unduly punitive and we will be surprised if it has the desired or expressed effect. It is consistent with our position across Australia where we have seen a kneejerk reaction to the problem of illegal graffiti.

It will pander more to talkback radio and, as I say, the rhetoric of tough on crime and law and order than address the heart of the problem. It is very politically popular to demonise (particularly) young people and I am sure the government will find that talkback radio listeners of mainstream talkback radio programs will probably think this is a great step forward. However, as I say, we find it neither a constructive nor appropriate response. With that, I will make further contributions as we go through the committee stage.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. G.A. Kandelaars.