In May this year, Mr Clare and Mr Stewart lobbied the ACT Government to ban the sale of fireworks to the general public.
“This is a great win for our local community.
“Illegal fireworks are a huge problem for our local area and most of them are purchased in the ACT,” Mr Clare said.
Despite the fact that the sale of fireworks was banned in NSW in 1987, fireworks purchased in the ACT continue to be set off in local streets, parks and backyards – often into the early hours of the morning.
“Finally the tap has been turned off in the ACT. This will bring the ACT into line with the rest of the country,” Mr Stewart said.
“A lot of the credit for this should go to Tony. He has been campaigning for this for a long time,” Mr Clare said.
Anyone caught buying and using fireworks without a NSW WorkCover permit risked an on-the-spot fine of up to $1000 from Police officers and WorkCover inspectors.
In addition, the courts can impose substantial penalties including up to $27,500 or up to 12 months jail, for handling fireworks without a licence.
Media contact: Chris Zogopoulos T: 9790 2466
