Demolition company fined $20,000 for dumping and burning waste in Charlemont.
EPA has fined a Melbourne demolition company $20,000 after firefighters discovered charred waste burning in trenches near new housing estates in Charlemont.
A Melbourne based company has been fined $20,000 for dumping and burning demolition waste in Charlemont.
The Victorian Environment Protection Authority (EPA) wacked Campbellfield company High Tech Demolition Pty Ltd with two fines of $10,176 during inspections in August and September 2025.
The company was also officially ordered to stop burying or burning waste after officers found piles of waste still burning,
Country Fire Authority brigades responded to an emergency call and found charred demolition waste in trenches and old swimming pool pits in Charlemont, prompting firefighters to alert the EPA.
EPA Southwest regional manager Martha-Rose Loughnane said illegal dumping and the burning of waste around new housing estates was a recurring problem.
“Our region is growing rapidly, but growth must not come at the expense of the environment,” Ms Loughnane said.
“Burning waste is unacceptable; it poses serious health risks from smoke inhalation, contaminates land intended for future homes, and threatens groundwater quality.
“These practices threaten our ability to grow healthy food in our gardens and create safe communities.
“Individuals and businesses that rely on this approach will be identified and held accountable.
“There is no circumstance where burning waste is an appropriate solution.”
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the company has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or considered by a court.
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
Environment, water & energy
william.keech@news.com.au
Originally published as Demolition company fined $20,000 for dumping and burning waste in Charlemont.
