Aussie Farms shock prompts calls to bolster trespass laws
Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud is demanding state governments review trespass laws to deter “nutters” from using an online map revealing farmers’ details to break into properties.
On Monday, farmers Australia-wide vented concern about their homes and businesses being targeted by animal activists after properties’ information and details were published on online platform — Aussie Farms.
The widespread outcry prompted Mr Littleproud to urge state governments today to reform trespass laws, and other criminal laws, to deter possible on-farm activism.
“Farmers around Australia are concerned for themselves and their children,” he said.
“No one would like the address of their family home put up online for all to see.
“There are plenty of nutters out there and who knows what one of them will do.
“State governments need to make sure trespass laws carry huge penalties. A big deterrent is required here.
“It’s not ok to go breaking into people’s businesses or homes.”
The interactive website, Aussie Farms, uses icons of pigs, eggs, milk and a butcher’s knife to pinpoint locations of thousands of farms, abattoirs, fisheries and feedlots nationwide.
Once icons are clicked by users, information including farmers’ contact details and their business location are revealed.
Brunswick dairy farmer Michael Partridge’s property, White Rocks, was shown on the platform, prompting the milk producer to label the website “an invasion of privacy”.
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