Illegal Dumping Compliance and Enforcement Campaign

Bathurst Regional Council has commenced an Illegal Dumping Compliance and Enforcement Campaign at Waste Transfer Stations across the Bathurst Local Government Area. This is in response to a concerning spike in illegal dumping incidents at these facilities which include Sofala, Trunkey Creek, Sunny Corner, Rockley, and Hill End Landfill. 

Since May 2025, there have been 134 reported cases of illegal dumping at these facilities, with these incidents placing a significant burden on Council resources, resulting in extensive and costly clean-up efforts. Consequentially, Council is taking strong regulatory action in an effort to prevent further misuse of these facilities. 

Bathurst Mayor, Cr Robert Taylor, is seeking to remind all residents that Waste Transfer Stations within the Bathurst Region are intended strictly for domestic waste disposal and for use solely by rural-rated property owners of the Bathurst Region.  

“These facilities are not to be accessed or used by individuals or businesses who do not meet the rural rating requirement. The use of the Waste Transfer Stations by ineligible users is a serious offence, and heavy penalties may be imposed on those found in breach of the rules. 

“Each Waste Transfer Station has clearly displayed signage at its entrance outlining the types of waste that are permitted for disposal. Dumping of prohibited materials is not only irresponsible, but it is illegal. Non-compliance with these requirements will result in enforcement action, including the issuing of penalties under the Local Government Act 1993 and the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. 

“Individuals found to be in breach of the regulations will be issued written notices. These notices form part of Council’s formal compliance procedures and are intended to ensure that all irresponsible users are held accountable for their actions,” said Mayor Taylor. 

Council strongly encourages all residents to use Waste Transfer Stations responsibly and to familiarise themselves with the correct procedures before disposing of waste.  

Responsible use of these community assets helps maintain the cleanliness and safety of rural areas and will ensure that the facilities remain available to rural-rated residents who do not benefit from a kerbside collection. 

For further information about what can be disposed of at your local Waste Transfer Station, residents are advised to consult the signage at each facility or visit the Bathurst Regional Council website, here: Waste & Recycling Locations Bathurst Regional Council 

Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer  

P: 02 6333 6179 M: 0448 685 340 E: genevieve.green@bathurst.nsw.gov.au