$2 million Plan to Combat Dumping Burden on Charities

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The Victorian Government has announced a $2 million plan to help charities fight back against the burden of illegal dumping at their retail outlets.

The Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith announced the funding and said that it would support efforts to both reduce dumping and help charities cover the cost of disposing of waste.

Mr Smith said charities should not have to spend their time or charitable funds acting as waste disposal outlets.

"It's not free for charities to dispose of unwanted rubbish illegally dumped on site. When charities have to pay for this waste to be removed, it undermines their ability to support the community," Smith said.

The Government package reportedly includes $500,000 for efforts to help charities stem the flow of illegally dumped waste and $1.5 million for landfill levy relief for the rubbish they are left with no choice but to send to landfill.

Under the 12-month funding agreement, Smith said that the Government will work with the National Association of Charitable Recycling Organisations (NACRO) on constructive solutions and an ongoing model to assist charities with the costs of unwanted waste.

He said options include better community education, signage, lighting, fencing and security.

St Vincent de Paul’s retail operations manager for Victoria Michael Rawlinson said that the new government funding was good news for Victorian Vinnies Centres.

“It’s certainly a step in the right direction,” Rawlinson said.

“If we can get help to alleviate the problem of dumping, that will free up more funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society’s welfare work in the community, supporting people in need.

“We’re looking forward to continuing to work with NACRO on rolling it out.”

Minister Smith said the Government wanted the message to be clear: "Broken, old, stained or outdated items such as televisions, computers, fridges, beds, mattresses and sofas and even building waste or chemicals should go to a local recycling and waste facility.”

"We want to end the practice of people dumping waste on charities so they can devote precious time and resources to helping families and others in need.”