”In a big win for those who have advocated for reform for many years, today the Greens’ bill to decriminalise begging in Tasmania passed its finally parliamentary hurdle and will become law.
“We moved to decriminalise begging for the first time six years ago because we believe in the fundamental principle that it’s not a crime to ask for help. It’s that principle we have fought for in the years since, and why we have continued to pursue this reform.
“Tens of thousands of Tasmanians live in poverty, and through no fault of their own some people end up having no other choice but to ask for help. Such a desperate last resort being a criminal act is unconscionable, and we are so glad that’s no longer the case.”
