Ban all fireworks displays

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the issue of fireworks and the damage they cause to people, companion animals, wildlife and the natural environment.

Entertainment should never come at the expense of another. Fireworks may be pretty to look at and entertaining for some, but for many others they are frightening and a risk to their health and even their lives.

People with PTSD or sensory conditions, such as autism, may suffer sensory overload, panic attacks and anxiety which may potentially lead to self-harm or suicide. There are also other health concerns, particularly for asthma sufferers and those with bronchial conditions. Wild animals are shocked, disorientated, and frightened, often ending in serious injury or death.

Companion animals are known to tremble in fear and worse, often escape their homes in the confusion and fear, leading to the permanent separation from their loving families or sadly, being hit by a car.

Fireworks have negative impacts to our environment by polluting river systems and drinking water reserves with toxic chemicals, and on occasion have even started grass fires, putting people's homes at risk.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to move towards a total ban of fireworks in Victoria, seek safer and more environmentally friendly options, such as drone and water projection shows and roll out education programs that highlight the dangers and risk of personal injury through the use of illegal fireworks and legislate harsher penalties for their use.