Gerald Lynch
Illegally dumped rubbish in Brimbank cost council more than $1 million last financial year.
A discontent resident asked for an explanation at the most recent council meeting regarding why so many reserves were left in “appalling” condition with dumped rubbish laying around.
The resident said the rubbish being dumped included trailers full of rubbish.
The answer showed that council may have its hands full.
Mayor Ranka Rasic said Brimbank council received 8769 requests relating to dumped rubbish and according to their own figures and they cleared 99 per cent of requests within five days.
She said council visits 58 ‘dumped rubbish hotspots’ weekly.
Cr Rasic in addressing the question advised that rates go towards council services that touch almost every aspect of life in the area, from roads, parks and footpaths to libraries and community services, to waste collection, recycling, events, arts and culture.
Council also visits 58 dumped rubbish hotspots’ weekly.
“Council and council officers are aware of the significant level of dumped rubbish and invest heavily to manage this illegal behaviour,” she said.
“In December 2023 and January 2024, there has been a significant increase in incidents of dumped rubbish, with 757 requests in January alone. Council are attending to these requests as soon as they are able and will continue to focus on maintaining the safety and amenity for the Brimbank community.”
A council spokesperson said a significant amount of money is spent cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish.
“While the vast majority of people in Brimbank do the right thing when it comes to disposing of rubbish, the recent increase in the amount of illegally dumped rubbish is a concern for council,” the officer said.
“Illegally dumped rubbish is not only a hazard for residents and workers, but also bad for the environment and an unfair additional burden for ratepayers and puts pressure on council budgets. Council spends approximately $1 million investigating, enforcing and cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish each financial year.
“Please notify council or police if you see rubbish being dumped or suspicious or illegal activity.”
