Tougher penalties introduced for trespassing rural land

TasFarmers have welcomed stronger penalties for people who trespass on rural properties and are caught carrying a firearm.

The changes are part of the Police Offences Amendment Bill 2025, which recently passed the Tasmanian Parliament.

Under the new legislation, the maximum fine for trespassing on properties whilst in the possession of a firearm has increased from $20,200 to $30,300.

The maximum term of imprisonment for the offence has risen from two to three years.

TasFarmers Wildlife, Policing and Firearms Committee Chair Alastair Cameron said the organisation had been campaigning for the changes for years.

“It’s good to see the crossbench and government deliver these reforms,” Mr Cameron said.

“For too long, people caught committing armed trespass in the country were getting very light sentences.

“We know that if the same thing happened in the city, it would be on the front page of every newspaper.

“There is a huge amount of risk for farmers, their families, employees and visitors when criminals are roaming around properties without authorisation and carrying firearms.”

Mr Cameron said it was about time appropriate penalties were handed down for serious criminal acts involving firearms.

“Penalties will act as a deterrent, whether through fines or the prospect of imprisonment.

“Heavy fines are more than appropriate for those caught doing the wrong thing.

“Armed trespass is not something farmers should have to put up with.

“We see poaching, fences cut and livestock killed, with cuts of meat and heads removed and the carcasses left behind.”