Council not the ogre

I WRITE to clarify recent media reports regarding Noble Park quadriplegic Michael Wright’s plight to place postcards on cars that have illegally parked in disabled parking bays.
Council agrees that Mr Wright should be supported in his efforts to make people more aware of their obligations and responsibilities in relation to parking access for people with disabilities.
Council cannot, however, endorse activities which are prohibited by legislation.
Media reports suggested the act would incur a jail sentence. This is not true.
Under the Road Safety Act 1986 and the Environment Protection Act 1970, monetary penalty points would be incurred – not a jail sentence. When council became aware of Mr Wright’s plan we contacted him to make sure that he was aware of the relevant legislation. Our purpose in doing that was to assist him to avoid breaching the law. Council has pledged to work with Mr Wright to find a lawful way of getting his message out. We stand by that offer.
Peter Brown,
Mayor,
Greater Dandenong.