MITCHELL Shire Council (MSC) is calling on the community to help tackle illegal dumping, with a new “Dob in a Dumper” campaign aimed at reducing the rising costs and environmental impacts of dumped rubbish across the Shire.
Illegal dumping continues to be a major issue in Mitchell. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, MSC collected more than 750 tonnes of illegally dumped waste—including over 1000 tyres—at a cost of $273,000 to ratepayers.
So far this financial year, Council has already received 783 reports of illegally dumped litter—up from 617 in 2023/24, and just 43 the year before that.
“Illegal dumping is not only expensive, it’s unsightly and damaging to our environment,” Mayor Councillor John Dougall said.
“We’re asking our community to help be our eyes and ears. If you see someone dumping rubbish, report it.”
As one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities, Mitchell is not alone. Illegal dumping is a growing issue across Melbourne’s outer fringe, where large rural blocks, new estates and less surveillance in isolated areas create more opportunities for people to dump rubbish illegally. It is particularly prominent in areas subject to significant development.
MSC and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) can fine people found guilty of dumping, with penalties of up to $3000. Since July last year, MSC has issued 49 infringement notices totalling more than $84,000.
“MSC ratepayers receive five Resource Recovery Centre vouchers each year with their rates notice,” Cr Dougall said.
“These can be used to dispose of most household items free of charge at our resource recovery centres.”
Each voucher is worth up to $40 and can be used at Council’s four Resource Recovery Centres in Broadford, Pyalong, Seymour and Wallan.
The campaign also addresses community concerns about bin capacity following the move to fortnightly general waste collection.
“While bin space continues to be raised as a concern, the majority of what is being dumped illegally – mattresses, furniture, whitegoods, tyres and construction waste—wouldn’t belong in a kerbside bin anyway,” Cr Dougall said.
“This is poor behaviour and cannot be excused. People are not doing the right thing.”
To report illegal dumping, visit www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/reportit or use the My Mitchell app.