unlawful entry

The Department of Justice and Correctional Services published the draft Unlawful Entering on Premises Bill for public comment.

• • If someone unlawfully gains entry to an enclosed property without permission from the property owner or lawful occupier they are guilty of an offence;
  • Property owners need to put up clear signage – or give an oral warning to the perpetrator – that indicates that entry is prohibited;
  • Owners or lawful occupiers can call the police to apprehend trespassers;
  • Trespassers can defend against the charge if there is a reasonable belief that they have title or interest on the premises that entitles them to enter the property;
  • It’s presumed that access to the door of the property is not prohibited if you’ve provided the means to access it.