Illegal dumpers left Mitchell Shire ratepayers with a $253,830 clean-up bill in 2025/26, with Mitchell Shire Council collecting 421 tonnes of dumped waste from Council-managed roadsides, parks and reserves.
Key facts (2025/26)
- $253,830 spent cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish
- 421 tonnes of dumped waste collected
- 1,056 reports of illegal dumping, up from 617 in 2023/24
- Almost 60 per cent of reports came from Wallan and Beveridge
- 61 infringement notices issued, totalling $85,000
How big is the problem?
Council received 1,056 reports of illegal dumping in 2025/26, compared with 950 in 2024/25 and 617 in 2023/24.
Of the 1,056 reports, 628 (almost 60 per cent) came from Wallan (276) and Beveridge (352). The two suburbs also accounted for approximately 55 per cent of Council's illegal dumping collections, an estimated 231 tonnes.
Illegal dumping is a growing problem across Melbourne's outer fringe, particularly in areas with significant development and vacant land.
"There is simply no excuse for illegal dumping," Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.
"We know how frustrating it is for residents to see rubbish dumped in their streets, parks and reserves. Every time someone dumps rubbish, our ratepayers are left to pay for it. Last year that bill was more than $250,000, all because some people would rather dump their rubbish on a roadside than take it to the resource recovery centre.
"Dumped rubbish contaminates land and waterways, harms wildlife and creates health and fire hazards in the places our community enjoys. It's selfish and it has to stop."
What is Council doing about it?
Council officers investigate illegal dumping and can issue on-the-spot fines of more than $1,000. In 2025/26, Council issued 61 infringement notices totalling $85,000. Council also prosecuted three offenders in 2024/25.
"We've taken people to court for dumping rubbish and we'll keep doing it," Cr Dougall said.
"If you dump rubbish in Mitchell Shire, we'll do everything we can to find you and make you pay."
Council has installed CCTV cameras at dumping hotspots, but cameras and Council officers can't be everywhere. That's why Council's Dob in a Dumper campaign calls on residents to report dumping and suspicious behaviour.
What are the penalties for illegal dumping?
Council works with the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and neighbouring councils to identify offenders. Illegal dumping can attract penalties of up to $600,000 and seven years' imprisonment for individuals, and up to $1.2 million for corporations.
How can I get rid of rubbish legally?
Mitchell Shire ratepayers receive five Resource Recovery Centre vouchers each year, each worth up to $40, to use at Council's Resource Recovery Centres in Broadford, Pyalong, Seymour and Wallan. Many commonly dumped items, including e-waste, cardboard, gas bottles, steel and car batteries, can be dropped off free of charge.
How do I report illegal dumping?
"If you see someone dumping rubbish, take down the number plate and report it," Cr Dougall said. "Your report could be the one that helps us take them to court."
If you witness illegal dumping, take note of:
- vehicle details and number plate
- date, time and location
- the type of waste dumped.
If it's safe to do so, photos or videos can provide crucial evidence.
You can report illegal dumping:
- online via Report It: Report an issue or incident
- through the My Mitchell mobile app
