Illegal Dumping

Zero Waste SA is working with KESAB environmental solutions to prevent incidences of illegal dumping in South Australia. Zero Waste SA is supporting local government and charitable organisations to implement effective measures to prevent illegal dumping in targeted hot spots.  To find out more about these grants click here.

Illegal dumping is the unlawful deposit of waste materials (larger than litter) onto private or public land where no licence or approval exists to accept such waste. Illegal dumping can vary from small to large bags of household rubbish to large scale dumping of materials in isolated areas, such as bushland, roadsides, creeks and parklands. 

Illegal dumping is a constant and costly problem in South Australia and is a major concern to local and state government due to the significant burden associated with clean up and disposal costs, enforcement and prevention.  Illegal dumping is also a significant cost to charitable organisations and has been adversely affecting their ability to provide much needed services to the community.

Reports and further information
In October 2005 the Local Government Association (in conjunction with Zero Waste SA, the EPA, KESAB and South Australian councils), investigated illegal dumping in South Australia to provide information and statistics on the incidence of illegal dumping within local government and other organisations.  Data from this report identified councils that have higher incidences of illegal dumping, indicated common illegal dumping locations, and identified common illegally dumped materials. To download the report click here.

In 2007 residents and business across 6 Adelaide local government areas were surveyed to:

• provide insights on the extent to which they understand the issue of illegal dumping
• determine the knowledge, awareness and use of various council waste collection, disposal and recycling services and
• identify the preferred method of communication about waste disposal services.

This report provides valuable insights into reasons why people illegally dump rubbish and how best to provide information regarding waste and recycling services to businesses and residents. To download the Illegal Dumping Survey Report click here

For more information on litter and illegal dumping click on the links below.

KESAB environmental solutions

Department for Environment and Climate Change NSW

Victorian Litter Action Alliance