WALLAN and Beveridge have accounted for a significant share of the rising number of illegal dumping reports across the shire.
Since 2023/24, the number of illegal dumping reports has grown by more than 400, jumping from 617 to 1056 in just two years.
Of the 1056 reports, close to 60 per cent came from Wallan (276 reports) and Beveridge (352) combined.
Illegal dumping is a growing problem across Melbourne’s outer fringe, particularly in areas with significant development and vacant land.
Dumping is more than just an eyesore, with ratepayers forced to fork out more than $250,000 to clean up dumping sites last year, according to Mitchell Shire Council.
“There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping,” Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said.
“We know how frustrating it is for residents to see rubbish dumped in their streets, parks and reserves. Every time someone dumps rubbish, our ratepayers are left to pay for it. Last year that bill was more than $250,000, all because some people would rather dump their rubbish on a roadside than take it to the resource recovery centre.
“Dumped rubbish contaminates land and waterways, harms wildlife and creates health and fire hazards in the places our community enjoys. It’s selfish and it has to stop.”
Council officers investigate illegal dumping and can issue on-the-spot fines of more than $1000.
In 2025/26, Council issued 61 infringement notices totalling $85,000.
Mitchell Shire Council also works with the Environment Protection Authority Victoria and neighbouring councils to identify offenders.
Illegal dumping can attract penalties of up to $600,000 and seven years’ imprisonment for individuals, and up to $1.2 million for corporations.
“We’ve taken people to court for dumping rubbish and we’ll keep doing it,” Cr Dougall said.
Council says it has installed cameras at popular dumping sites but does not rely solely on them, also encouraging residents to report illegal dumping through its “Dob a Dumper” campaign.
“If you see someone dumping rubbish, take down the number plate and report it,” Cr Dougall said.
“Your report could be the one that helps us take them to court.”
To report illegal dumping, visit mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/reportit, use the My Mitchell app or call Council on (03) 5734 6200.
You can also call the EPA’s 24-hour pollution hotline on 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842).
