The Hawkesbury City Council, in partnership with the NSW branch of the Environmental Protection Authority and NSW Police, have launched the first of a number of joint operations targeting heavy vehicles and illegal dumping in the region.
Authorities reported an initial 23 heavy vehicles had been inspected and information gathered for further investigation as part of the operation. Further crackdowns and inspections are expected in the coming weeks.
Deputy Mayor for Hawkesbury City, Barry Calvert, explained that dumping was a “blight” on the community and cost significant amounts of money to remedy.
“Illegal dumping can have serious consequences for our local environment. It can lead to land contamination, destruction of bushland and degradation of plant and animal habitats,” Clr Calvert said.
“Contaminated waste, including chemicals and asbestos, can also be harmful to humans and animals.
“Please do the right thing for our environment and families, and dispose of waste sensibly and thoughtfully.”
Operators, drivers, and the community are warned that on-the-spot fines can range from $3,000 for individuals to $15,000 for businesses. For organisations found guilty of unlawful disposal of asbestos waste, the penalty ranges from $110,000 to $15,000,000 and/or a prison sentence.
The community are also warned that accepting contaminated fill can mean property owners are liable to pay for its removal, which can extend into tens of thousands of dollars.
Residents can report illegal dumping at the Council’s website, and learn more about the local waste facilities that accept asbestos and other contaminated waste.