The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has put would-be wrongdoers on notice, warning that illegal dumping in national parks will not be tolerated and promising ramped up patrolling to catch dumpers.
NPWS is also issuing a call to action for visitors to report illegal dumping and help protect their national parks.
NPWS Executive Director Park Operations, Deon Rensberg, said "National parks and public parklands should be vibrant natural spaces for families and friends to enjoy quality time in the outdoors.
New surveillance cameras, signage, and barriers are being rolled out in hot spots to catch illegal dumpers. Regional Illegal Dumping Squads (RIDs) will also be actively patrolling and investigating cases."
Compliance efforts have also been boosted by a recent NPWS study into illegal dumping, completed with the support of the NSW Environment Protection Authority.
The study has identified problem areas and will make it easier to target and prevent dumpers. It also highlights the cost that dumping has on the environment and community.
Mr Rensburg said: "Cleaning up after illegal dumpers costs hundreds of thousands of dollars - money that could be spent on conservation and park visitors. On top of the waste that is left behind, dumpers cut fencing, vandalise gates, and create illegal tracks in bushland to hide their waste."
New signs at parks and updated website messaging will make it easier for visitors to report illegal dumping incidents using RID online. The community can also make a report by telephoning 131 555.
Recent RID investigations have resulted in two men being fined thousands of dollars for dumping waste in Sydney's Heathcote National Park. Another offender has been issued a fine for illegally dumping in Garawarra State Conservation Area.
"The message to illegal dumpers is clear - dump waste and expect to be caught. The penalties far exceed the cost of disposing of your waste appropriately," Mr Rensburg said.
