The state government has launched a new program to help councils and other organisations deal with illegal dumping.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos’ announced last week that applications are opening for the $8.5 million Illegal Dumping Clean-up Rebate Program, which will provide financial support for councils and public land managers to clean up illegally dumped waste.
Illegal dumping in the region has been on the rise for some years now, including the Bellarine Peninsula.
The new program will cover up to 50 per cent of clean-up costs where councils and land managers have been unable to trace offenders and recover costs.
Mr Dimopoulos said the state government had listened to councils about the challenges and costs involved with illegal dumping.
“We’re backing public land managers with the support they need to clean up illegally dumped waste,” he said.
“Too often councils and public land managers are left with a costly mess to clean up from the actions of wrong-doers.
“This rebate scheme provides support to help cover these costs and keep our suburbs and towns clean.”
In 2022 the City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) installed a semi-autonomous system outside a Salvation Army store in North Geelong after a spate of illegal dumping at the site, also increasing patrols around the City.
Last year CoGG’s Troy Edwards, then-acting chief executive, said illegal dumping cost the City approximately $1 million per year and was “a growing concern for the region”.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant emphasised the local relevance of the program.
“This funding supports local clean-ups and stronger enforcement to tackle illegal dumping on the Bellarine, helping protect our coastline for future generations,” she said.
The rebate program will be facilitated by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
It is part of a wider crackdown that includes $13 million for the Illegal Dumping Taskforce, led by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), to monitor, detect and respond to waste crimes.
To report illegal dumping contact the EPA on 1300 372 842. Visit environment.vic.gov.au/grants/illegal-dumping-clean-up-rebate to find out more about the Illegal Dumping Clean-Up Rebate Program.
