By MICHAELSINCLAIR
BRIMBANK shoppers who owe thousands in fines could get a shock when they return to their car after doing the shopping.
Under tough new legislation, serial fine defaulters could be the target of sheriff’s officers who are set to patrol car parks and check car registrations to help recoup funds.
Drivers owing upwards of $10,000 will have their cars wheel clamped on the spot, and a payment or payment plan must be made for the clamp to be released.
The tough new measures follow a four-month amnesty period, where the State Government waived associated court costs and warrant fees on many overdue fines including speeding, red lights, parking infringements, fare evasion and a failure to pay to use CityLink.
But the new laws, which come into effect on 1 July, will also give the sheriff’s office the power to suspend drivers licences and registrations and even dock wages.
Brimbank is the biggest offender with overdue fines, with residents owing an alarming $32 million when the amnesty was launched.
More than 110,000 warrants have been issued to 25,000 people across the municipality.
Neighbouring Maribyrnong owed $12.5 million, Hobsons Bay another $14 million and Wyndham owes $15 million.
While the amnesty is now over, people who are yet to pay any overdue fines could be eligible to arrange a payment plan to avoid the tough new measures. However, the fines and associated costs must now be paid in full.
For more information, call the sheriff’s office in Sunshine on 9300 6352 or visit www.fines.vic.gov.au.
