The state government last Sunday announced more than $10 million in funding for projects and initiatives focused on litter, illegal dumping and waste and resource management in communities including Noosa.
Environment Minister Leanne Linard said the government would provide $2.7 million in funding for 30 local councils to aid in the fight against illegal dumping.
The grants allow councils including Noosa Council to employ dedicated illegal dumping compliance officers to identify those illegally dumping in their communities and proactively look at ways to prevent illegal dumping from happening.
The Miles Government will also provide $7 million to employ regional waste management plan coordinators across Queensland including Wide Bay to improve environmental and economic outcomes for regions.
The coordinators will assist groups of geographically aligned local councils to implement their regional waste management strategies. These strategies are pivotal to improving waste management and recycling and to facilitate economic growth and job creation across regional Queensland.
Minister Linard also announced the opening of Community Sustainability Action Grants of up $75,000 for eligible community groups and individuals for projects to remove marine debris from beaches and waterways and litter from community spaces such as parks and reserves and initiatives to prevent litter and marine debris from entering the environment.
“Illegal dumping is unacceptable and those responsible need to be held accountable for their actions,” Ms Linard said.
“Stopping illegal dumping will take a coordinated approach including the State Government, local councils and the wider community, that’s why we’re making funding available to employ dedicated illegal dumping compliance officers.”
For more information or to apply for a Community Sustainability Action (CSA) litter and marine debris grant, visit qld.gov.au/environment/management/funding/community-sustainability