- Victorian Coalition Government provides $1.2 million to help charities burdened by illegally dumped rubbish
- Charities given a helping hand to provide relief for irresponsible behaviour
- Victorian Coalition Government building stronger communities
The Victorian Coalition Government is giving charities a $1.2 million helping hand, ahead of the Labour Day long weekend when illegal dumping spikes with household clean ups.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith today announced the funding to assist recycling charities recoup the costs of removing items that have been illegally dumped on them.
"While most Victorians do the right thing and will dispose their unwanted items appropriately this long weekend, there are some people who continue to recklessly dump their unwanted goods on charities," Mr Smith said.
"Charities should not be footing the bill for people doing the wrong thing and breaking the law. They need our support, not our rubbish.
"Under the Environment Protection Act, the EPA has a range of enforcement powers available including fines of up to $250 for dumping rubbish.
"If you see someone dumping their garbage on a charity, record their vehicle registration and report the crime to the EPA’s pollution hotline.
"Funding and enforcement are only part of the solution to illegal dumping.
"Education programs run by councils and Sustainability Victoria are also being ramped up to provide advice and services to help households recycle unwanted items that can’t be put in kerbside recycling bins."
The Coalition Government’s relief funding will be made available through National Association of Charitable Recycling Organisations (NACRO) who will distribute relief to their member organisations.
Witnesses to illegal dumping can call the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on 1300 372 842.
Media contact: Elise Huck 0477 365 912 elise.huck@minstaff.vic.gov.au