Environmental pollution and dumping
Our environment is precious, and it is everyone’s responsibility to help protect it for current and future generations.
What is illegal dumping?
Illegal dumping is the unauthorised disposal of waste on public or private land, including roadsides, bushland, vacant lots, and waterways. It poses serious risks to:
- Public health and safety
- Native flora and fauna
- Soil and water quality
- Visual amenity and property values
Dumped materials may include household rubbish, green waste, whitegoods, furniture, construction waste, tyres, or hazardous chemicals.
What can you do?
Dispose of waste responsibly
All waste must be taken to a Council Resource Recovery Centre or an authorised landfill site – only during operating hours.
Use Council services
Towong Shire provides regular hard and green waste collections for rural residents, as well as drop-off facilities for larger items and your regular bin service.
Report illegal dumping
If you see someone dumping rubbish or find waste dumped in a public space, report it immediately:
Towong Shire Council – 1300 365 222
EPA Victoria 24-hour hotline – 1300 372 842
All reports are treated confidentially and help us investigate and act quickly.
Penalties Apply
Illegal dumping is an offence under the Environment Protection Act 2017. Significant fines may apply for individuals and businesses found to be dumping waste unlawfully.
