Extension for fences review responses

The Queensland Government has extended the deadline for public submissions to a review aimed at reducing conflict between neighbours due to disagreements over dividing fences.

Attorney-General Kerry Shine said the deadline for submissions on the Neighbourly Relations dividing fences review had been extended from 22 June to 26 July.

“Dividing fences are one of the most common causes of neighbourhood conflict and complaints to government departments and councils,” Mr Shine said.

“Since the discussion paper was released last month there has been considerable interest. Feedback from a range of community groups and individuals was that extra time was needed to prepare their responses.”

There are often disagreements over the location, height and cost of a fence or because neighbours simply can’t agree on the type of fence to be built.

The Government is reviewing the issues relating to dividing fences, including the provisions of the Dividing Fences Act 1953.

Submissions are being invited from anyone with ideas or proposals on how the current situation can be improved.

Members of the public have three options to take part in the review: online survey, written submission or attending a public forum. The dates and venues for the public forums are being finalised.

A summary guide and discussion paper dealing more fully with the issues are available at the department’s website at www.justice.qld.gov.au or by contacting (07) 3321 4929.

The online survey is available at www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/consultqld. Written submissions can also be posted or sent via email and more details can be obtained from the department’s website or by calling the above phone number.

5 June 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400
kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au