Help us stop illegal dumping in the Shoalhaven

Illegal dumping is one of the most serious environmental issues facing the Shoalhaven. Over the past five years, the Shoalhaven LGA has experienced a five‑fold increase in reported illegal dumping offences. In 2024/25, Shoalhaven became the first council in NSW to receive more than 2,000 reports of illegally dumped rubbish via RID Online, in a single 12 month period. This highlights the rapid growth of this issue across our region.

In the past 12 months alone, more than 1,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste was recorded across the Shoalhaven, which is equivalent to the weight of around 270 male elephants. The total clean‑up cost to ratepayers and landowners was $378,500, not including the long‑term environmental impact on our natural areas.

Every year, large quantities of waste end up in our bushland, waterways and reserves. In 2024/25, dumped material included;

• 346.93 tonnes of soil and excavated material
• 331.30 tonnes of household waste
• 114.52 tonnes of green waste
• 69.93 tonnes of vehicle parts, 18.99 tonnes of tyres
• 12.06 tonnes of scrap metal
• 3.96 tonnes of asbestos.

These materials cause harm to wildlife, pollute sensitive natural environments, and create ongoing risks for the community.

The Shoalhaven is particularly vulnerable to illegal dumping due to its size and accessibility. The region spans 4,660 square kilometres, with 65% bushland that is publicly accessible.

Council is taking a holistic approach to addressing illegal dumping, including education and community engagement, improved collaboration with partner agencies, maintenance and installation of prevention infrastructure such as gates and bollards, and enhanced compliance and enforcement activities. With support from an EPA grant of $76,428, Council is delivering school education programs, training for trade sectors, community engagement activities, and new prevention initiatives aimed at reducing illegal dumping across the LGA.

Council is working hard to tackle this issue, but we can’t do it alone. By reporting illegal dumping and spreading awareness, you can help keep Shoalhaven beautiful and protect our environment for future generations.

Why It Matters

• Illegal dumping damages ecosystems and threatens native wildlife.
• It costs ratepayers thousands in clean-up and enforcement.
• Fines for illegal dumping can reach thousands of dollars and it’s never worth the risk.

Report illegal dumping cases on: RID online