Hume City Council has reinforced its commitment to reducing illegal dumping and maintaining cleaner streets by making its Waste Response Program permanent.
This decision, endorsed at the most recent Council meeting on Monday 24 March, builds on the program's strong track record of success since its launch in October 2023.
Illegal dumping has long been a challenge in Hume, impacting the environment, community pride, and Council resources. The Waste Response Team was introduced as a dedicated initiative to address this issue, working across 12 suburbs to remove small volumes of dumped rubbish while focusing on community education.
By engaging directly with residents, the team has helped foster a culture of responsibility around waste disposal, reducing reliance on enforcement action.
The program has already delivered tangible results, benefiting both the environment and local ratepayers. Over the past year, the team has engaged with more than 22,660 households, providing education on correct waste disposal and encouraging responsible practices. This proactive approach has contributed to an 83 percent success rate in resolving dumping cases while also achieving a $400,000 reduction in waste management costs — the first cost decrease in several years.
The team responds to a variety of waste-related incidents, including:
reports of dumped rubbish, both reported and unreported cases
dumped hazardous materials, such as asbestos
non-compliant hard waste bookings
dumped trolleys and rubbish obstructing footpaths and roadways
high-incidence areas where multiple dumping incidents have occurred
educating residents on utilising their five free waste vouchers per year
The Waste Response Team has played a vital role in addressing this issue while ensuring residents are supported with the right information and services. The program's long-term impact is expected to extend beyond immediate clean-up efforts, fostering lasting behavioral change across the community.
By making the program permanent, Hume City Council is reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable city.
Residents can learn more about the program and how to report illegal dumping by visiting hume.vic.gov.au/waste.
