THE environmental regulator is urging people to dob in rubbish dumpers.
Environmental Protection Authority northwest regional manager Paul Ratajczyk said anyone camping, mountain biking, hiking or just having a barbecue in the bush could do their bit for the environment.
“Give us a prompt report and an accurate location of the dump site and you are giving EPA a better chance of tracking down the culprit and making them pay the price,” Mr Ratajczyk said.
“Taking a photo can help, too.
“With these simple measures you can make sure your favourite spot in the bush doesn’t turn into a stinking, illegal tip.”
Loads of waste dumped in the bush often include construction and demolition waste, hazardous materials like asbestos and rotting household rubbish.
EPA can issue regulatory notices and fines that start at more than $9000 and can go well into the hundreds of thousands of dollars if the case goes to court.
The court can also order the culprit to pay for the clean-up, which can cost even more than the fines.
And cases involving small items of litter can be reported to the local council.
“Illegal dumping creates an eyesore and can contaminate the soil and nearby waterways, and if the culprits get away with it, the cost of the clean-up is too often left to the community or landholders,” Mr Ratajczyk said.
Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution
