The Minns Labor Government has passed legislation strengthening penalties for vandals who seriously damage war memorials.
The Crimes Legislation Amendment (War Memorial Offences) Bill 2025 passed Parliament on Wednesday afternoon, creating an aggravated offence of intentional or reckless property damage or destruction applying to war memorials.
It increases the maximum penalty from five to seven years' imprisonment for intentionally or recklessly damaging a war memorial.
The bill also amended the Summary Offences Act to allow the court to order a convicted person to pay up to $4,400 in compensation for any loss or damage caused.
This discretionary order means local councils, RSLs or other community organisations that maintain war memorials will not have to foot the bill for remediation.
One war memorial desecrated is one too many. The NSW Government is making sure the courts have the toughest possible penalties available to deter this unacceptable behaviour.
The protection of our war memorials is vital. Local war memorials play a crucial role in honouring the service and sacrifice of all those who have served.
They provide a space for communities to gather, reflect and educate the next generation.
Attributable to the Attorney General:
"The passage of this important legislation sends the clear message that the vandalism of our war memorials is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
"It provides the strongest possible penalties for this unacceptable conduct and also means local organisations will not be left with the bill to repair any damage caused."
Attributable to the Minister for Veterans David Harris:
"This legislation demonstrates this Government's commitment to our veterans and their families and honouring their service and sacrifice.
"The strengthened provisions will ensure those who act inappropriately and desecrate the memories of veterans will feel the full weight of the law.
"We've listened to veterans and acted."
