The ACT Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Planning, Public Works and Territory and Municipal Services is seeking public submissions for their Inquiry the Crimes (Bill Posting) Amendment Bill 2008.
Bill posting refers to the act of putting up posters, notices or placards on any public property like light poles, walls, trees, bus shelters, fences etc and on private property without permission of the owner. The bill proposes to amend the Crimes Act 1900 (s120) so that strict liability applies to bill posting. A strict liability offence is one without a fault element, so there is no need to prove intent, knowledge, recklessness or negligence as long as the physical element (posting a bill) exists. Essentially this means that conduct alone is sufficient to make the defendant culpable
The amendment also regarding event promoters to take reasonable steps to ensure their event is promoted without contravening section 120. A promoter who recklessly fails to comply would be guilty of an offence. Offenders could potentially face fines up to $10,000 for individuals and $50,000 for a corporation as well as on the spot fines of $200.
The Bill is accessible via the ACT Legislation Register at:
http://www.legislation.act.gov.au/b/db_33748/default.asp
The Committee is inviting written submissions and would like to hear from anyone with an interest in this matter. Submissions are requested by 1 June 2009. Electronic lodgement is preferred.
For further information contact:
- Committee Chair, Mrs Mary Porter AM on (02) 620 50100
- Committee Secretary, Ms Nicola Derigo on (02) 6205 0435
Submissions should be forwarded for the following address:
The Secretary
Standing Committee on Planning, Public Works and Territory & Municipal Services
Inquiry into the Crimes (Bill Posting) Amendment Bill 2008
GPO Box 1020
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Email: committees@parliament.act.gov.au