Graffiti
Stonnington Graffiti Hotline 1800 067 072
Graffiti vandalism is illegal and costs the community millions of dollars each year. Responsibility for graffiti management lies with us all. It is a community problem that government and private property owners can solve by working together.
Stonnington Graffiti Management Program
Rapid removal of graffiti is the most effective strategy - it removes the recognition that 'graffitists' strive for. It also clearly demonstrates to potential 'graffitists' that the area is being monitored and looked after.
Council has recognised this requirement through the introduction of its Graffiti Management Program, a program that provides residents with the tools necessary to help with rapid removal and management of graffiti including:
- Freecall Graffiti Hotline 1800 067 072 to report and arrange removal
- Free Graffiti Removal Kit (one per property available from Council Service Centres)
- One free graffiti removal from the facade or front fences of a private property by Council's Contractor (ring Hotline for details) Discounted professional removal by Council's Contractor
- Free on-site assessment and advice by Council's Contractor
- Options for professional colour-matching and paint mixing for walls and facades
What can you do?
When it comes to graffiti, prevention has shown to be better than the cure. Once graffiti is allowed to remain on a property, it doesn't take long for additional graffiti to appear in the same area. Conversely, a clean and well-maintained surface is less inclined to be subjected to ongoing attacks.
A number of practical measures can be taken by the resident or occupier to minimise the chances of being affected.
Paints and coatings
Always have extra paint of the same colour as your walls, fences and other painted surfaces available. If removing the graffiti is not appropriate, paint over it immediately. Dark colours help deter vandals as their tags are not as easily visible. Anti-graffiti coatings are also available. Hardware stores can give advice on the most suitable product for you.
Vegetation
Shrubs and bushy plants near buildings help restrict access to walls or views into buildings. Plants that attach to walls, such as ivies and vines, also prevent graffiti and improve the amenity of the surface.
Graffiti surfaces
Try to avoid plain, smooth surfaces or fences. Patterned and rough concrete surfaces are preferable, as are chain, lattice or wooden paling fences. Tiled or mosaic surfaces are also effective.
Lighting
A well-lit area may deter vandalism. Sensor lighting can be very effective and inexpensive to run.
Other Alternatives
Protecting your property from graffiti vandalism can also help protect it from other forms of property crime.
Secure items such as benches, barbeques, and wheelie bins so that they cannot be used to gain access to walls or rooftops. Use pebbles in areas around walls to create noise when people are walking.
Protecting Your Neighbourhood
If you witness someone putting graffiti on a property, contact police immediately
Prahran Police: 9520 5200
Malvern Police: 9822 2487
Information about illegal activity or suspected perpetrators can also be reported to Crime Stoppers on the national toll free number 1800 333 000.