Surf Coast Shire Council has taken a stand against all types of vandalism to public and private property following an Australia Day incident.
Council unanimously resolved to condemn vandalism during its 24 February meeting, after graffiti was found on a rented tent being used during Lions Club of Anglesea’s 26 January family day event.
Councillor Paul Barker raised the issue during the meeting through a notice of motion and said all community spaces and public events should be respected.
“If you’ve got different ideas, feel free to share them, but doing it in this format is neither inclusive nor respectful,” he said.
“Individuals and groups had gone out and spent money to hire this equipment that vandals chose to spray with an anti-Australia Day sentiment.
“Regardless of what your views are, breaching private property rights by vandalising them is not an appropriate way to go and, if anything, it will more than likely harm your cause.”
Lions Club of Anglesea was left with a $600 bill to clean-up the graffiti, which meant diverting money intended to support the community, according to the Lions Club’s Facebook page.
Council’s existing Graffiti Management Policy recognised the financial costs and negative impacts of graffiti across the shire, with Cr Barker’s motion reinforcing the policy’s principle while condemning vandalism in all its forms.
Cr Joel Grist said disagreements belonged in debates and “not spray-painted on walls”.
“This motion intends to ensure that no member of our community is left in any doubt that vandalism is not activism, dialogue, or civic engagement,” he said.
“It is unlawful damage that costs ratepayers money, burdens our staff and volunteers, and diminishes the amenity and safety of our shared spaces.”
Council will aim to clean up all graffiti from council property as soon as possible, including removing offensive graffiti within 24 hours, and will supply graffiti kits to assist in the clean-up on private properties.
Residents whose property has been subject to a graffiti attack are advised to report it to their local police station or call Victoria Police on 131 444 and photograph the graffiti before removing it.
