The City of Greater Geelong is tackling illegal dumping by using permanent and mobile CCTV cameras and patrols.
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 is cracking down on illegal dumping, with six infringements valued at $2,178 recently issued to people caught dumping outside the Salvation Army’s Opportunity Shop in North Geelong.
City of Greater 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,” Deputy Mayor Sullivan said.
“Our crews are patrolling hot spots and issuing infringements for breaches of the Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law.”
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.
Chair of the Circular Economy (Waste Management) portfolio, Councillor Belinda Moloney, 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.”
Image: Dumping outside the Salvos in North Geelong. Image courtesy of City of Greater Geelong.
