Permanent and mobile CCTV cameras and patrols are being used by the City of Greater Geelong to target illegal dumping in the community.
The city is cracking down on illegal dumping, with six infringements valued at $2178 recently issued to people caught dumping outside the Salvation Army’s Opportunity Shop in North Geelong.
Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan said CCTV is being used to identify offenders and monitor areas that are repeatedly targeted.
“We’re recording evidence in real time and the technology is getting increasingly sophisticated, so it’s not worth trying to get away with illegal dumping,” he said.
“Our crews are patrolling hot spots and issuing infringements for breaches of the Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law.”
Deliberately leaving, tipping, or burying waste on private or public land is considered illegal dumping. This includes leaving items outside opportunity shops when they are closed, creating a burden on charities and volunteers.
The City’s CCTV network includes almost 100 cameras that operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The cameras are used by the City’s Local Laws team and Victoria Police to support community safety.
Councillor Belinda Moloney, Chair of the Circular Economy (Waste Management) portfolio, said the City is investing $17.2 million in waste disposal and recycling in its 2022-23 draft budget.
“Charities rely on people donating good quality items, so we don’t want them used as dumping grounds,” Cr Moloney said.
“Dumping is not donating. It’s a nuisance to authorities, charities, and the wider community.”
Council’s hard waste collection service allows households to recycle or dispose of bulky items, including mattresses, without charge, twice each financial year.
Dumped rubbish can be reported via contactus@geelongcity.vic.gov.au or by calling 5272 5272.
