The Shire of Ashburton has agreed to utilise the Fines Enforcement Scheme for the recovery of unpaid fines.

At its April meeting the Council was advised that there were a number of people who refused to pay fines for various penalties and that the use of this Scheme was an alternative method of forcing these people to pay.

Shire Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Carey said that once the requirements of the legislation under which the infringement notice was issued have been fulfilled the Council will enforce the unpaid fine using this Scheme.

"Council will, firstly, issue a Final Demand Letter to the alleged offender allowing them 28 days to either pay the fine or elect to have the matter dealt with by the Courts," said Mr Carey.

"Where there is no response to this advice and after the expiration of 28 days Council may register the matter at the Fines Enforcement Registry."

There are significant benefits to the Council in utilising the Scheme such as less administration work, reduced court appearances and more efficient and effective recovery of unpaid fines.

Mr Carey added that the Council does not take an extremely hard line on when fines should be paid.

"If people cannot pay the fine straight away they are given the opportunity to pay that fine over a period of time," said Mr Carey.

"This system will remain and the Fines Enforcement Scheme will only be used when a person refuses to pay their fine or does not seek to have it dealt with by the Courts.

For further information please contact Council’s Senior Administration Officer, Mr David Ashton on (08) 9189 1029.