New legislation in NSW gives councils and public land managers greater powers to address abandoned property in public areas.

The Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 (PSUP Act) has replaced the Impounding Act 1993, introducing stronger measures for items such as trailers, boats, and caravans left in public spaces. Under the new laws, authorities can issue notices to owners of unattended vehicles, including those that are registered and left in the same location for more than 28 days.

If a vehicle poses a safety risk or obstruction, it can be removed immediately. For unregistered or immobile registered vehicles, the removal timeframe is reduced to three days. If owners fail to comply, authorities may move the vehicle, take possession of the space, relocate the vehicle to storage, and issue a fine.

Fines for leaving vehicles unattended start at $660, with the potential for higher penalties imposed by a court. The PSUP Act aims to increase accountability for individuals and businesses to manage their property promptly, under threat of stronger penalties.

NSW Local Government Minister Wendy Tuckerman said the new powers were needed, noting that councils spend $17 million annually dealing with abandoned shopping trolleys alone. 

"The new rules put the onus back on owners where it belongs," Tuckerman said. "These new laws will not only save councils time and money, they'll also ensure public spaces are safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for our communities."

The legislation also includes more flexible requirements for retailers regarding after-hours collection of abandoned trolleys.

The PSUP Act also grants authorities specific powers to manage stock animals wandering on public roads and posing a safety risk, a measure that was widely supported by local governments across NSW. 

The new rules apply to a range of items, including boat trailers, unregistered cars, trailers and caravans, shared bikes, and personal watercraft. Owners or responsible parties may be issued a notice to prevent items from becoming unattended again, with penalties applicable if the item is subsequently left unattended. Unregistered vehicles may be removed from the public space and returned to private property.