According to reports: Victoria will set new rules for private backyards, and the offenders will face a fine of $2500. The Victorian government will set new rules for the color and size of the private backyard to protect the fruit and vegetable fields, with a maximum fine of $2,500 for offenders. The draft Law on the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that all plant protection networks used by households must be:
“The mesh size must not be less than 5 mm, the color must be white, and the diameter must not be less than 500 microns.”
If this policy is approved, those who use a non-compliant protection net in a private backyard will be fined $330, and those who sell or promote non-compliant products will be fined $660. If the offender is appealed to the court, the maximum penalty is $2,500.
The government said the new law will help protect wildlife, a spokesperson said: “Although we have carried out public education activities, many animals are seriously injured in fruit trees because they continue to use unsuitable nets to protect fruit trees. Or death.” The Royal Australian Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) said that if the net is not used properly, it may pose a serious threat to animals such as flying foxes, birds, possums and even snakes, causing these wild animals to die of suffocation and blood loss. , shock or dehydration. RSPCA recommends that homeowners check their own protective nets at least twice a day to ensure that wildlife is not harmed.
It is believed that the draft law will be available for public enquiry in September.
Https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-14/gardeners-to-face-backyard-blitz-on-netting/11510416