Statement from the Frankston City Mayor Kris Bolam JP
Published on 15 August 2025
Frankston City Council strongly condemns the inappropriate and illegal placement of political and social propaganda on community facilities.
This week, stickers were unlawfully placed on the new play equipment at Kareela Reserve. Since being made aware of the vandalism yesterday, Council this morning removed the materials, repaired the playground, and formally advised the organisation responsible. Political messaging of this nature has no place in our parks, public spaces, and above all, our playspaces, where our children should be able to do just that – play.
We understand that events overseas can be deeply distressing and that people across our community feel pain and suffering on all sides, something I touched on in a statement late last year. Council respects that this is a difficult time for many. However, public assets are not the place for political or ideological messaging of any kind, and Council will not allow our facilities to be used in this way.
Unfortunately, this is part of a broader challenge Council faces with vandalism across the city – from damage to trees and landscaping, to graffiti on public toilets, to deliberate destruction of play equipment. This behaviour is not only illegal, but it costs our community dearly in time, resources, and money that could otherwise be invested in improving our city.
Council will continue to take a strong stance against vandalism and criminal damage. Offenders face fines and other enforcement action under Council’s Community Local Law 2020, the Graffiti Prevention Act 2007, and other relevant legislation.
We ask residents to partner with us in protecting our city. If you see vandalism or damage to Council property, please report it via Snap, Send, Solve. If you witness suspicious or criminal behaviour, please contact Victoria Police.
Frankston City is working hard to enhance its image, revitalise our public spaces, and create places that we can all be proud of. But we can’t do this alone. We need our community to stand with us, be vigilant, and help stop vandalism.
Together, we can make Frankston City safer, stronger, and more welcoming for everyone.