Regional Illegal Dumping (RID) Squads are regionally-based teams specialising in dealing with illegal dumping, landfilling, asbestos and other contaminated waste issues. 

Working across local government boundaries, RID Squads use a strategic, coordinated approach to preventing illegal dumping and focus on the particular issues within their region.

The squads are funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority and the member local councils, who work together and pool resources.

RID investigator Jason Robbs is currently operating out of Cessnock City Council in conjunction with Lake Macquarie and Wyong councils and the results are already proving successful.

“This is a very new initiative for the Hunter and Central Coast, especially for councils who are involved in the project and those who are expected to jump on board soon,” Mr. Robbs said.

“We recently undertook a joint operation in the Cessnock LGA after reports of illegal dumping activity in the area, resulting in a substantial fine and clean-up notice being given to the property owner.”

The RID Squad work closely with stakeholders such as the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on illegal dumping operations.

Cessnock City Council’s environmental and waste manager Michael Alexander said the community appear divided on this issue.

“We have a majority who are appalled with the irresponsible actions while others continue to ignore warnings and find it okay to dump illegally,” Mr. Alexander said. 

“Those who participate in such activity should be aware that sophisticated surveillance measures are being rolled out to identify and prosecute for such offences.”

Most of the tip-offs being received so far are from the public, and Mr. Robbs encourages the community to keep sending this intelligence through.

Incidences of illegal dumping can be reported to 131 555. Find out more here.