To write, draw, mark, scratch or otherwise deface property by any means so that the defacement is not readily removable by wiping with a dry cloth without property owners permission.
In 2001 the City of Greater Geelong identified the issue of Graffiti throughout the municipality. Since 2001 the City of Greater Geelong has actively sort ways of assisting the Community in both removal and prevention of graffiti.
In 2017 the Graffiti Management Strategy replaced the previous Graffiti Policy.
The Graffiti Management Strategy is based on the current “Best Practice” principals of Eradication, Education, Engagement and Enforcement (4Es principle).
Best practice graffiti reduction models, both nationally and internationally, recognise the importance of graffiti prevention. We have had a successful Graffiti Removal framework since 2001 that focuses on active engagement and the rapid removal of graffiti.
Council supports the following graffiti prevention principles:
- Eradication - Based on a program of Rapid Removal.
The Graffiti Team will coordinate with other Council Departments and private property owners to ensure graffiti is removed as quickly as possible.
- Education - Provide Community education and information to ensure a whole of community proactive approach to graffiti prevention.
- Engagement - Active engagement with all ages within the community to educate them on the consequences of engaging in illegal graffiti activity and to provide appropriate avenues for creativity and skill development opportunities.
- Enforcement - Work with the Victoria Police to support their efforts in prosecuting graffiti vandals.
Benefits of managing graffiti
Our aim is to:
- Provide guidance and minimise the impact of graffiti.
- Support and advise the community on graffiti management as well as provide graffiti removal kits whenever possible.
work with other organisations and government agencies to educate the community on graffiti issues.
Policy outcomes
As one of the largest municipalities in the country, the City of Greater Geelong covers some 1200 square kilometres of rural, coastal and urban areas: each area with its own challenges. One of the principles underpinning our Graffiti Management Strategy is to recognise that there are different ways of addressing graffiti issues in different communities.
In developing the graffiti management strategy we have taken the very best of previous approaches and research. We continue to look for innovative solutions as well as the tried and tested. The problem of graffiti cannot be solved by government and legislation alone, it is only through support from all sectors of the community that can we successfully reduce graffiti.
We have been overwhelmed by enthusiasm and support from the community - from individuals and a wide range of groups and organisations. Together we are working on solutions to make Geelong a city with minimal graffiti.
Graffiti tag register
We keep a register of the 'tags' on a shared database between Council and Local Police.
We encourage residents and business owners who have graffiti on their properties to take photographs of the damage prior to removal and email the photographs along with details of address, date of graffiti and any costs to graffiti@geelongcity.vic.gov.au. This information can then be added to the Tag register.
Murals on private property
We celebrate the diverse nature of its creative communities and values the unique role that street art can play in the cultural fabric of the community.
Property owners
Prior to commencing a project, property owners are encouraged to contact the Public Art Officer to discuss how a street art project may enhance the visual presence of their property.
The Public Art Officer will work with property owners to ensure that high quality, dynamic and engaging street art projects are developed.
We will provide advice in relation to the proposed design, the life of the project, how to successfully engage an artist and establish shared expectations about the work with neighbouring properties.
Graffiti removal
We are responsible for graffiti removal on all Council owned properties and assets.
Removal from Private Property - removal of graffiti from private property where damaged surface is unpainted brick (not sandstone or other highly porous products), wood, concrete or untreated metal surfaces. This assistance is dependant on available budget. These works will be completed by either our contractor or Department of Correction's crews.
COVID-19 Response times
Please note:
The Department of Justice Graffiti Removal Program, who provide significant assistance to the City of Greater Geelong’s graffiti removal program, is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
This could result in a delayed response time to the removal of graffiti – in particular, along reserve fencing.
We thank you for your patience during these unusual times.
Graffiti removal kits
Graffiti removal kits are no longer available.
Paint Voucher Program
This program is to assist private property owners who have graffiti on painted external surfaces.
The Paint Voucher provides 4 Litre tin of colour matched paint, a roller, paint brush, paint tray and drop sheet.
To obtain a paint voucher:
- Report graffiti to Victoria Police via 131 444 or police.vic.gov.au
- Take a photograph of graffiti damage and surface damaged
- Contact City of Greater Geelong Graffiti Line on 5272 4319 or graffiti@geelongcity.vic.gov.au to obtain paint voucher
Need to know more ...
Our Graffiti Hotline number - 03 5272 4319 is available during business hours or email graffiti@geelongcity.vic.gov.au.