A new statewide initiative is giving Queensland councils fresh support to crack down on illegal dumping, with Townsville locals hoping it will help curb the growing problem across the region.
The $17.7 million Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program has opened for applications, offering councils funding to hire compliance officers, install surveillance cameras and upgrade signage in known dumping hotspots.
The announcement comes as Townsville continues to deal with its own dumping issues, including hundreds of tyres recently discovered along Laroona Road. Volunteers from Tidy Up Townsville are calling for stronger enforcement.
The program is designed to strengthen councils’ ability to investigate and respond to illegal dumping, giving them more resources to identify offenders and prevent repeat incidents.
Councils across Queensland can now apply for the grants, with applications open until February 25.
Townsville residents are encouraged to continue reporting illegal dumping through council channels to help authorities target problem areas as the new program rolls out.
