Community eyes to dob in illegal dumpers slashes council figures

Eagle eyed residents have helped Canterbury Bankstown slash the number of illegal dumpings by 40 per cent.

Canterbury Bankstown Council staff and units involved in the EyesOnIt anti-dumping campaign.

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Canterbury Bankstown Council is ramping up efforts to rid itself of illegal dumping after its EyesOnIt anti-dumping campaign cut the problem by 40 per cent.

In the first round of the campaign, from January to March, there were more than 3500 reports of illegal dumpings.

This campaign was supported by Sydney Regional Illegal Dumping (RID) squad and community groups, including Environment@Lakemba, Chester Hill Environment Group and Cleaner Greener Riverwood.

Council said they fined these people $2000 for dumping household items.

Individuals found guilty face fines up to $4000 while the maximum penalty for companies is $8000.

The council has joined forces with local community groups, including Environment@Lakemba and Chester Hill Community and Neighbourhood Centre, meaning more eyes and ears to report the incidents.

Mayor Khal Asfour said the number of dumpings, which occurred in the first week of the campaign, was reduced by 40 per cent by the end.

“So, if anyone is considering illegally dumping materials, remember, it will be reported, investigated, and action will be taken against you,” Mayor Khal Asfour said.

“The first round was more about education but in the second phase, which will run for six weeks, ending mid-August, the focus will be on enforcement.

“Placing items on the street without a booked clean up can attract a fine of up to $4000 for individuals and $8000 for businesses.

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“We’ll be out in force using more dedicated staff and surveillance cameras than ever before, moving them constantly.”

The project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.

In 2017-18, a total of 2400 tonnes of illegal rubbish was removed from areas in Canterbury-Bankstown, in 15,000 separate incidents.

The council is requesting residents and businesses use their free council clean-ups to get rid of unwanted items while local environmental charity, The Bower (bower.org.au), picks up reusable household items.

To report illegal dumping, visit cb.city/reportit or call 9707 9000. To report any instances of dumped commercial materials, contact the Sydney Regional Illegal Dumping squad on 131 555.