27 July 2021

Government targets illegal dumping with concealed cameras

| Dominic Giannini
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Illegal dumping

The ACT Government has released footage of illegal dumpers. Photo: ACT Government.

Illegal dumpers have been put on notice, with authorities stepping up their surveillance of hotspots like Mugga Lane and Majura Parkway, installing concealed cameras to catch people disposing of rubbish on the side of the road.

Isolated rural areas are popular dumping spots, according to Transport Canberra and City Services, which has placed 16 cameras around the Territory.

The ACT Government says the problem is hard to fix and disappointing as it affects the amenity and the safety of our city.

To highlight their new enforcement efforts, the government has released footage on social media of people illegally dumping their waste.

Basic littering penalties range from $1000 for individuals to $5000 for businesses, while fines for illegally dumping rubbish that could be a safety risk to people or animals carries a higher penalty of $5000 for individuals and $25,000 for businesses.

People can also face up to six months in prison.

The dumping of illegal substances carries penalties of up to $200,000 for individuals and $1 million for businesses. People can also face up to seven years’ imprisonment and the possibility of other penalties.

Compliance officer

The ACT Government has released a new video targeting illegal dumping. Photo: ACT Government.

Large household waste items can be taken to the tip at either Mitchell and Mugga Lane, but Canberrans can dispose of items free of charge if they are still usable at a Green Shed.

To report illegal dumping, call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or fill out the Access Canberra Feedback Form.

More information about recycling and disposing of waste in the ACT can be found at Recycling and Waste.

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Steven Bailey10:48 pm 29 Jul 21

Nicely written.

So have they actually issued any fines yet?

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