Balloon release ban comes into force

THE days of releasing balloons are over in Victoria or hosts will face a hefty fine.

Warnings about the threat that balloons pose to wildlife have been translated into new laws which could see people who deliberatively release them slapped with huge fines.

From July 1, 2021, the Environment Protection Authority has increased powers to prevent harm to the environment from pollution and waste, and anyone’s activities that pose a risk must be minimised.

The EPA warns that wildlife can be seriously harmed or killed by balloons and their attachments; they can become entangled or ingest balloon litter.

“Balloons floating in the water can look like squid or jellyfish. Marine mammals, sea birds and turtles often mistake them for food,” the warning continues.

“In Victoria, seals and other animals have been known to become entangled in balloon ribbons which can cause lasting damage.”

Under section 115 of the Environment Protection Act 2017, fines for releasing balloons into the environment are: up to $991 for a person and up to $4956 for a company.

For a series of balloon releases, and if taken to court, penalties are up to $16,522 for a person and up to $82,610 for a company.

More information about balloon litter and the environment, and the Zoos Victoria campaign When Balloons Fly, Seabirds Die is available on the Zoos Victoria website.