Central Coast Council is working in close partnership with local police and community members to improve graffiti management across the region.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said graffiti is an act of vandalism that should be reported directly to police and removed as quickly as possible.

“Graffiti is a complex issue that requires Council, community members and the police to work together to deliver a multifaceted solution,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Council is responsible for the removal of graffiti on our facilities and we encourage community members to notify Council if they observe graffiti on any of our properties.

“It is the owner’s responsibility to remove graffiti from private property but Council can help by supplying a free graffiti removal kit.

“The kits provide the chemicals and equipment needed to remove graffiti from your own property or, with permission, the properties of friends and neighbours.

“Removing graffiti as quickly as possible not only makes the process easier but also reduces the likelihood that offenders will recommit.

“The kits are one of many initiatives which help to reduce graffiti across the Coast.”

Ms Vaughan said Council is currently preparing a Draft Central Coast Graffiti Management Strategy 2019 – 2022.

“Later this year we will be inviting community members to provide feedback on the first Draft Graffiti Management Strategy for our region.”

Senior Constable Bethany Hawker, Tuggerah Lakes Police, Crime Prevention Officer said reporting of graffiti as soon as it is sighted significantly increased the likelihood of catching offenders.

“Graffiti is a crime and we encourage community members to report via the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, if their property has been vandalised through graffiti or if they observe graffiti in their area,” said Senior Constable Hawker.

“Every piece of intel helps us to catch the vandals and reduce graffiti across the Coast.”

Mayor Jane Smith said the community want to see effective management of graffiti on the Central Coast

“Graffiti affects neighbourhood appearance, businesses and community confidence in the safety and security of public places,” Mayor Smith said.

“Council is committed to working collaboratively and developing programs that will make a difference in stamping out graffiti.”

Free graffiti removal kits are available from all Central Coast libraries and Council’s Gosford and Wyong customer service centres. To receive a graffiti removal kit, residents and business owners must be aged over 18 and show proof of address.

Find out more information at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/graffiti.