A new state-funded program aimed at cracking down on illegal dumping has been launched, with councils across Queensland set to receive additional resources to investigate offences and deter repeat offenders.
The $17.7 million Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program (FIDPP) will support local governments to prevent and respond to illegal waste dumping, which has surged across the state in recent years.
The State Government says the program will empower councils by funding dedicated illegal dumping compliance officers, surveillance equipment such as cameras, improved signage, vehicles and other enforcement tools.
The aim is to strengthen local capacity to identify offenders and protect public land, waterways and bushland.
The program forms part of a broader push to reduce litter and improve waste management outcomes across Queensland.
According to the state government, reports of illegal dumping increased by 26 per cent under the previous Labor government.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Queensland’s natural environment was being put at risk by poor waste practices and illegal dumping.
“Queensland is blessed with some of the most extraordinary natural landscapes anywhere in the world, and we all have a responsibility to protect them from the harm caused by litter and illegal dumping,” Minister Powell said.
“This program strengthens the work we do alongside councils right across the state, giving them the tools they need to identify offenders, deter illegal dumping, and safeguard the local places Queenslanders care about.
“Whether you live on the coast, in the regions, or out west, every Queenslander deserves clean parks and healthy waterways.”
Councils will be able to apply for funding under the program to address local dumping hotspots and improve enforcement responses, with a focus on prevention as well as prosecution.
Grant guidelines and application details are available through the Queensland Government’s Environment, Land and Water website. Applications for the Fighting Illegal Dumping Partnership Program are open until 4pm on 25 February 2026.
The government says projects will help reduce environmental damage, clean-up communities and ensure illegal dumping offences are detected and acted upon more effectively across the state.
Noosa Council has been contacted for a response.
