Illegal dumpers in Kwinana now face fines of up to $125,000 after two Town of Kwinana staff members recently attended a training workshop run by the Department of Environment and Conservation.
Under new legislation introduced earlier this year penalties for illegal dumping are now a maximum of $62,500 for individuals and $125,000 for corporations.
The increased penalties have been welcomed by WA local governments who are facing a growing problem of illegal dumping in their communities.
Town of Kwinana Environmental Services Coordinator Ashley Harding, one of the council employees who participated in the workshop, said the cost of cleaning up illegally dumped material and the health risks it posed to residents meant the council would be taking a zero tolerance approach.
“There will be no leniency, we will use every avenue possible to prosecute offenders and reduce the amount of harmful waste being dumped throughout the community,” Mr Harding said.
“These people show total disregard for our environment and many of the dumped materials carry potential health risks to residents.”
“Over the next few weeks, to coincide with the increased penalties, we will be installing covert cameras in dumping hotspots as well as increasing patrols and undertaking more comprehensive follow-up investigations.”
“Fencing will also be erected around hotspots to keep illegal dumpers out,” Mr Harding added.
The new legislation will allow councils to claim clean up costs as well as penalties from successful prosecutions under the Sentencing Act 1995.
Residents can also do their part by becoming a registered Litter Reporter through the Keep Australia Beautiful Council website www.kabc.wa.gov.au.