The Hodgman Liberal Government takes very seriously our responsibility for the protection of threatened species.
Accordingly, to mark Threatened Species Day I am pleased to announce the Government’s intention to amend the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 to increase the penalties for those who deliberately kill threatened species in Tasmania.
The current maximum penalty for killing threatened species in Tasmania is restricted to a fine of up to $15,900, with no ability for a judge to impose a custodial sentence despite the seriousness of the offence. This is significantly less than other jurisdictions.
Under our proposed changes, the penalties will increase to a fine of up to $100,000 and a maximum custodial sentence of up to 12 months imprisonment.
The community was shocked at the shooting of two threatened eagles earlier this year, and these changes will send a stronger message that this will not be tolerated in Tasmania.