Dividing fences public forums for Goondiwindi and Warwick

Residents in the southern Darling Downs are being urged to participate in a public forum as part a Queensland Government review of dividing fences laws and remedies.

Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland Kerry Shine said public forums would be held at Goondiwindi and Warwick next month.

The Goondiwindi forum will be held at the Goondiwindi RSL, 23 Albert Street, Goondiwindi from 2pm to 4pm on 5 July. The Warwick forum will be held at Warwick courthouse, 88 Fitzroy Street, Warwick from 10am to 12 noon on 6 July.

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

“The Department of Justice and Attorney-General is conducting a review of the current processes, laws and remedies available to resolve these issues and disputes.”

“A key part of the review is getting the opinions and experiences of people in the community who have had problems with dividing fences.”

“The legislation (Dividing Fences Act 1953) was first introduced more than 50 years ago.”

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.

Public submissions are due by 26 July.

27 June 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400