Since the "Aussie Farms" activist map went live in January, the Australian farming community has been bombarded by activist trespassers.
On Monday 8 April 2019 a further 'major animal activist event' is set to be staged by a coalition of activist groups across a number of states.
AustralianFarmers wants farmers, their families, and employees to be safe, savvy and prepared when dealing with activist protests and trespassing.
The following tips provide recommendations on what actions should be taken before, during and after on-farm activist activity.
Prepare yourself and your property
- Restrict entry – keep main gates shut and locked.
- Erect signage - put clear signs at points of entry, for example: "Warning - no entry without permission from the landowner".
- Always adhere to best practice - whether activists are present or not, we all have an obligation to do the right thing by animals in our care.
- Engage with your community - talk with local police, neighbours, and friends and have them on speed dial for a rapid response when called upon for support.
- Stay alert – keep a watchful eye on activity on and around your farm, and share information with friends, neighbours and police.
- Stay informed – monitor news, social media and online forums to keep up to date with activist activity in your area. You should also read up on your legal rights.
During an activist protest
- Call 000 - police have asked us to pass on this recommendation. 000 will yield a faster response than any other police number.
- Explain your concerns - tell the emergency operator about the specific threats posed by the activists (for example to biosecurity, animal welfare, WH&S, lost production, etc.).
- Record everything – footage of faces and vehicle registration numbers. Note any identifying features of the activists, especially if they interact with livestock or enter your house yard.
- Do not use force - even what you consider 'reasonable force' may be used against you.
- If you need to intervene, be cautious - if you need to intervene to prevent harm to your animals or property, be calm and measured in your response and record footage of your actions.
After a protest event
- Provide evidence – give all identifying footage to the police and make a formal complaint.
- Consider legal action – you might like to explore your ability to sue identified intruders.
- Tag AustralianFarmers – mention us if you post any footage to social media, or send a copy directly to the National Farmers' Federation. This can be invaluable in our advocacy work.
The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) and its member bodies are all tirelessly working to stop extreme activist behaviour on farms and protect our farmers.
Sign the petition below to help the NFF call on the government to strengthen trespass laws and penalties.
Petition to strengthen farm trespass laws
Ahead of the 2019 Federal Election, I'm calling on all major parties to commit to urgent action to prevent farm trespass.
Farmers have experienced a wave of intrusions by members of militant and well funded activists groups.
The response from our legal system has been woeful, with fines handed down from as little as $1.
It's time the law was changed, to properly protect privacy, biosecurity, and the welfare of families and livestock.
This is a serious national issue, and warrants a national response. I'm joining the call for the Federal Government to intervene, and work with the states and territories on a decisive solution.
**your signature**
Sign Now
10,500
