Just like in other states, the West Australian Government is preparing a short sighted and knee jerk reaction to graffiti in WA that could put a real holt to creativity amongst a young population who are already kinda bored.
The current West Australian State Government is trying to introduce laws that will make it illegal for stores to sell 'graffiti tools' to people under the age of 18. And because there is no intrinsic difference between many art tools and "graffiti tools" - lots of creative people are going to get caught in the cross fire.
Along side spray cans and permanent markers, a whole lot of innocent products are getting the bad tag, including crayons, fabric markers, oil pastels and calligraphy pens!
A group opposing the laws, calling themselves
Think First WA say that these laws have not proven effective in other Australian states at reducing graffiti, and are upset that there has been no consultation or balanced discussions with young people, industry and other relevant parties regarding the implementation or impact of these laws
Creative folk in Perth are confused at being potentially treated like criminals without even proof of criminal intent. As one young artist from Fremantle said, "Lots of people kill people in cars every day, but no one is trying to ban the sale of cars... It feels like a book burning exercise."
Check out the bill
here and also the people opposing the Bill here.
Check out the gallery here of artworks in WA made legally for public projects in the state.