Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is encouraging Victorians to contribute to a better environment by reporting those who litter streets, beaches and roads.
EPA CEO Nial Finegan said the New Year was the perfect opportunity to kick-start EPA’s public awareness campaign to help reduce litter from motor vehicles.
"There is no excuse for littering anywhere under any circumstances," he said.
"Not only does litter end up in our waterways and harm the environment, but it can pose great risk during heightened bushfire danger periods."
"Those caught littering from their vehicles face a $295 fine, or a $590 fine for lit cigarettes."
Victorians are fed up with people littering their state. With the help of the community, EPA issued 12,859 fines last financial year.
More than 85 per cent of the $4 million in fines issued were for cigarettes being thrown from vehicles. Other fines included the littering of food packaging, drink containers and other small items.
Mr Finegan said EPA and many Victorians were serious about tackling litter. "To date, more than 60,000 Victorians have signed up to report litter to EPA," he said.
"We need to stop litter where it starts and drive a strong message that you will be caught and fined."
"We thank those who have reported litter and encourage all Victorians who witness littering from motor vehicles to report it to EPA."
People can report litter by downloading the app in the Apple or Google app stores, visiting www.epa.vic.gov.au/reportlitter or by calling 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC).
EPA’s campaign includes radio and online advertising, social media and local council partnerships.
Reporting litter:
EPA Victoria encourages litter reporters to ensure their reports are accurate and complete so that we can work together with you to tackle litter.
EPA has listed some tips to ensure your report doesn't go to waste.
- Who? Vehicle details, rego, colour, driver or passenger, gender of litterer
- What? Lit or unlit cigarette or if not a cigarette please describe the litter. Was it a bottle, can? Food wrapper?
- When? Exact time and date of offence
- Where? Where was the car, what road was it travelling on, in which suburb? What intersection was closest?
- How? How was the litter deposited – thrown from vehicle, dropped before exiting vehicle or dropped before getting into a car.