❓ Mr. Bowler raises concerns about increasing illegal sandalwood cutting and the effectiveness of current fines. The Minister acknowledges increased reports but defends the current penalties as a significant deterrent.
AnsweredQoN 3488Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
(1) Is the Minister aware of the increasing level of illegal sandalwood cutting taking place in Western Australia and that much of this activity involves the use of chainsaws, leaving the root systems in the ground?
(2) Is there evidence to suggest that the current, outdated fines are no longer a deterrent; and
(a) if so, what amount is considered sufficient to act as an effective deterrent?
(2) Is there evidence to suggest that the current, outdated fines are no longer a deterrent; and
(a) if so, what amount is considered sufficient to act as an effective deterrent?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
9 September 2010
Responded by
Minister representing the Minister for Environment
Response time
30 days
(1) The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has advised me of an increase in reports of suspected illegal sandalwood harvesting in recent years. These allegations are investigated by DEC. However, I understand that given the nature of allegations, often it can be difficult to determine the persons involved.
(2)-(a) I am advised by DEC that the range of penalties currently available are considered to be a significant deterrent to illegal sandalwood harvesting. The penalties that can be applied under several pieces of legislation, include the
Sandalwood Act 1929
($200 per offence), the
Sandalwood Regulations 1993
($2,000 per offence), the
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950
($4,000 per offence) and the
Conservation and Land Management Act 1984
($10,000 per offence).
Notice: This document is created or edited using unregistered or evaluation copy of rtLib valid for testing or development purposes only. To use it for productive or any other purposes please register it. You may purchase the license on
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(2)-(a) I am advised by DEC that the range of penalties currently available are considered to be a significant deterrent to illegal sandalwood harvesting. The penalties that can be applied under several pieces of legislation, include the
Sandalwood Act 1929
($200 per offence), the
Sandalwood Regulations 1993
($2,000 per offence), the
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950
($4,000 per offence) and the
Conservation and Land Management Act 1984
($10,000 per offence).
Notice: This document is created or edited using unregistered or evaluation copy of rtLib valid for testing or development purposes only. To use it for productive or any other purposes please register it. You may purchase the license on
http://www.rtlib.com
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