AUSTRALIAN LAWS! 14 SURPRISING things that are forbidden in Australia

Summary

This video explores peculiar Australian laws that may astonish newcomers or those planning to visit. From the prohibition of possessing over 50 kg of potatoes in Western Australia to the hefty fines for private fireworks displays, the video delves into a range of unusual regulations. It also covers laws against driving with pets in your lap, offering rewards for stolen property, public disturbances, and the use of tanning beds. The informative content aims to raise awareness and respect for local customs and legal boundaries in Australia.

Takeaways

• 🥔 It's illegal in Western Australia to possess over 50 kg of potatoes unless you are a commercial seller, with fines up to AUD 2,000 plus the value of the potatoes.
• 🚗 Driving with a pet in your lap is prohibited for safety reasons, with potential fines up to AUD 200 and loss of merit points.
• 📢 Offering a reward for the return of stolen property without questions asked is illegal in South Australia and Tasmania, with fines up to AUD 500.
• 🎆 Setting off fireworks privately is forbidden with fines up to AUD 50,000, except for licensed pyrotechnicians, with an exception in the Northern Territory for Territory Day.
• 🤬 Singing offensive songs or swearing in public can be fined, including streaking at sports events, as part of maintaining public order.
• 🍔 Eating or drinking while driving is illegal in many Australian states to prevent distractions, with fines up to AUD 300.
• 💒 Disrupting weddings or funerals is illegal in South Australia, with severe penalties including fines up to AUD 10,000 and imprisonment.
• 📰 Publishing fake news in Queensland can lead to up to 6 months in jail, to prevent misinformation about events like births, deaths, weddings, and funerals.
• 🔆 The use of solariums or tanning beds is banned in Australia due to increased skin cancer risks, especially with high UV levels.
• 🚶‍♂️ Placing feet on public transport seats is considered disrespectful and can result in fines up to AUD 288.
• 🎣 Recreational fishing requires a license or payment of a fee in states like New South Wales and Victoria, with specific limits on catch amounts for conservation.
• 🔨 Noise violations, such as using power tools during restricted hours, are offenses under the Environment Protection Act in Victoria, reflecting a culture of respect for others.

Q & A

Why is it illegal to possess more than 50 kg of potatoes in Western Australia?

It is illegal to possess more than 50 kg of potatoes in Western Australia to protect local potato growers. This law dates back to the 1940s and aims to prevent unfair competition.

What are the potential penalties for possessing more than 50 kg of potatoes in Western Australia?

If caught with more than 50 kg of potatoes in Western Australia, you can be fined up to $2,000 Australian dollars, plus twice the value of the potatoes.

Why is driving with a pet in your lap illegal in Australia?

Driving with a pet in your lap is illegal because it is potentially harmful to the animal and dangerous for the driver, as it can block the view and cause distractions.

What are the consequences of driving with a pet in your lap in Australia?

If caught driving with a pet in your lap in Australia, you can be fined up to $200 Australian dollars and receive demerit points on your license.

Why is it illegal to offer a 'no questions asked' reward for the return of stolen property in South Australia and Tasmania?

Offering a 'no questions asked' reward for the return of stolen property is illegal because it encourages theft by allowing thieves to return stolen items without facing consequences.

What are the penalties for offering a 'no questions asked' reward in South Australia and Tasmania?

The fines for offering a 'no questions asked' reward in South Australia and Tasmania can go up to $500 Australian dollars.

Why are private fireworks displays forbidden in Australia?

Private fireworks displays are forbidden in Australia to ensure public safety and prevent accidents. Only licensed pyrotechnicians are allowed to set off fireworks.

What are the fines for setting off fireworks without a license in Australia?

The fines for setting off fireworks without a license in Australia can go up to $50,000 Australian dollars.

What restrictions exist regarding fireworks in the Northern Territory of Australia?

In the Northern Territory, fireworks are only allowed to be sold and set off on Territory Day, which takes place on July 1st.

Why is it forbidden to sing offensive songs or swear in public in Australia?

Singing offensive songs or swearing in public is forbidden to maintain public order and prevent disturbances. These actions can be considered offensive and disruptive.

What are the penalties for singing offensive songs or swearing in public in Australia?

The penalties can include fines and vary depending on the specific laws of each state.

Why is it forbidden to eat or drink while driving in many Australian states?

Eating or drinking while driving is forbidden to prevent distractions that could lead to accidents. The law aims to ensure that drivers remain focused on the road.

What are the fines for eating or drinking while driving in Australia?

The fines for eating or drinking while driving can go up to $300 Australian dollars.

What are the consequences of disrupting a wedding or funeral in South Australia?

Disrupting a wedding or funeral in South Australia can result in fines up to $10,000 Australian dollars or even up to 2 years of imprisonment.

What is the penalty for publishing fake news in Queensland, Australia?

Publishing fake news in Queensland can result in up to 6 months of jail time.

Why are tanning beds forbidden in Australia?

Tanning beds are forbidden in Australia because they increase the risk of skin cancer, especially since Australians are already exposed to high UV levels.

Are there any exceptions to the ban on tanning beds in Australia?

Tanning beds are banned for commercial use, but they may still be allowed for private use.

Why can you be fined for putting your feet on public transport seats in Australia?

You can be fined for putting your feet on public transport seats to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. It's considered impolite and disrespectful to other passengers.

What are the fines for putting your feet on public transport seats in Australia?

The fines for putting your feet on public transport seats can go up to $288 Australian dollars.

Why is a license required for recreational fishing in some Australian states?

A license is required for recreational fishing to help with conservation efforts and maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems.

What are the noise restrictions in Victoria, Australia?

In Victoria, it is an offense to make excessive noise during specific time periods, such as before 10:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m., to respect neighbors and maintain public peace.

Why is it forbidden to have your dog unleashed in public areas in Australia?

It is forbidden to have your dog unleashed in public areas to prevent potential attacks on other dogs or native species and ensure public safety.

Where can you legally have your dog off-leash in Australia?

You can legally have your dog off-leash in specific designated areas, such as dedicated dog parks.

Why is drinking alcohol on most Australian beaches forbidden?

Drinking alcohol on most Australian beaches is forbidden to prevent public disturbances and maintain safety and order in public spaces.

What are the penalties for drinking alcohol in public areas in Western Australia?

In Western Australia, the fines for drinking alcohol in public areas, including beaches, can go up to $200 Australian dollars.