Graffiti

Graffitti Prevention Act

The Graffiti Prevention Act (Vic) became law in April 2008. You will have seen the billboards on train and tram stops about ‘on the spot fines of $500 for carrying a spray paint can’. A factsheet on the new laws is available on the Information sheets page.

We also have 3 fact sheets on how to deal with fines. Young people with fines can be referred to Youthlaw or to their local community legal centre. We would also like to hear from young people if they have any complaints about being approached searched and/or charged by police with graffiti offences. We will be informing the government of any such concerns.

Hosier Lane and street art places in the city – are they legal?

Many young people think these are legal graffiti places but they aren’t. Melbourne City Council (MCC) does issue permits to allow street art – so that’s why you might see street artists there – BUT the permit has to be applied for by an owner of the building and it’s only for that piece of art. Tags or one-off stencils are not regarded by MCC as street art.

Can police ask for your name and address?

If police think you might have broken the law or are about the break the law they can ask your name and address. This could be about having paint on your hands or being near wet graffiti.

Searches for spray paint cans

A number of young people have called us about being searched on the train. Police can do this if you are 14 or up, or if you ‘appear’ to be 14 or over. Carry an ID if you are under 14. They can search bags.