Where's the waste? EPA can ‘fine’ out

EPA Victoria has warned Gippsland businesses and landholders there’s more to waste disposal than just getting it off the property, and reminds the public that it’s easy to report illegal dumping.

The warning comes after EPA fined a local business that got rid of its stockpiles of waste but couldn’t show that they went to a lawful place.

EPA Gippsland Regional Manager Jessica Bandiera says whether it’s a matter of bungled paperwork or deliberate offending, EPA doesn’t play “Where’s Wally” with industrial waste.

“Any lawful place, which includes a licensed landfill or recycling facility, will give you documented proof to show they received your industrial waste and that you did the right thing,” Ms Bandiera said.

“That paperwork also proves your pile of rubbish, demolition waste or asbestos has not been dumped in a creek, in the bush or on some unfortunate farmer’s land,” she said.

“If you are a business generating or dealing with waste, you have duties. You need to manage your risks, onsite and when you dispose of, or hand on your waste.”

Most businesses do the right thing, and EPA won’t hesitate to use its regulatory powers to protect the community and the environment from pollution from the ones that don’t.”

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.

EPA is also encouraging people to report illegal dumping; members of the public often see things that don’t look right, and anyone can report it anonymously.

Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at www.epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution