Youth groups attack harsh anti-graffiti laws

Youth groups attack harsh anti-graffiti laws

By Bill Mason

BRISBANE — Youth and civil liberties groups here have criticised proposals for a maximum penalty of 10 years' jail for graffiti offences in the Queensland government's draft revision of the Criminal Code.

Youth Affairs Network spokesperson Penny Carr said on August 14 that the move would be a grave mistake, warning of worsening relations between police and young people. The Civil Liberties Council described the new laws as "over the top".

Brisbane Resistance organiser Zanny Begg said on August 17, "Such draconian penalties for graffiti would result in victimisation of youth, who already face severe harassment from police. Instead of new laws, the state government and city councils should provide public places where street art and posters can be legally placed to allow free public expression of the views of young people."

From GLW issue 243