Community feedback update

Thank you to everyone who has already shared ideas and feedback on how we can reduce illegal dumping in the Shoalhaven.

One strong theme has emerged: tip fees.

We want to be clear and transparent with our community: Tip fees are not set by council

Tip fees are determined by the NSW Government’s Waste Levy, managed by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). This means Council has no authority to change, reduce or remove these fees locally.

What we can do is:

• lobby the NSW Government using the feedback you provide
• ensure your concerns and experiences are clearly represented
• help advocate for long‑term solutions that support our residents

And we will - your voices on this issue are being heard. But we also need your local, practical ideas.

While we continue advocating at a state level, we also need ideas that Council can implement locally to help reduce illegal dumping right now.

We’re encouraging the community to think about innovative, achievable initiatives, such as:

• targeted community education
• better signage in hotspot areas
• easier ways to dispose of tricky items
• awareness activities run in partnership with Council

For example, residents may suggest simple “Know Your Waste” pop‑up stalls at local markets or events, where people can ask quick questions and learn the right way to dispose of difficult items. These friendly, visible stalls have helped cut down waste issues in other communities.

Share your idea

If you have a clever, practical idea that could help keep Shoalhaven clean, add it to the Ideas Wall before 22 March. Voting starts 23 March, and the most-supported ideas will help shape future Council strategies.

Together, we can protect our environment and reduce illegal dumping across the Shoalhaven.