New penalties for out-of-control events
Organisers of parties and events are now on notice with police enforcing Out-of-Control Event Legislation recently passed in parliament.
The legislation was developed to crack down on wild suburban parties that often lead to senseless violence and property damage.
The Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 (QLD) now gives police greater powers to deal with unruly parties and events, and the power to prosecute irresponsible party and event organisers.
Out-of-control Events
These events involve:
- gatherings of at least 12 people
- at least three engaging in out-of-control conduct
Out-of-control Conduct
This conduct involves:
- trespassing
- damaging property
- disorderly conduct
- fighting
- unreasonable noise
- obstructing traffic
- high intoxication
- breaking bottles/glass
Additionally, out-of-control conduct must cause, or be likely to cause, someone at or near the event to feel fearful of violence, to a person or property, or substantially interfere with peoples’ right to enjoy or access a public place.
Event organisers, gatecrashers and anyone involved in an out-of-control event who commits an offence faces a maximum penalty of $12,100 or one year imprisonment. If underage event organisers are involved in an out-of-control event their parents will be subject to penalties.
The bill provides a defence for a person who has taken reasonable steps to ensure the event does not become out-of-control, or where a third party has caused the offence.
If your event starts to get out of control call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Consider what steps you can safely take to end the event – you are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of your guests.
For more information about planning a safe party visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/party.
