Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Shane Rattenbury, is urging residents to be responsible and thoughtful with the items they leave at charity bins over the coming weeks.
“Charity bins are a great way to donate clothing, footwear and blankets to those in need but Canberrans are urged not to use them as dumping sites for rubbish,” Said Mr Rattenbury.
“While most Canberrans do the right thing, unfortunately some people continue to use them to dump everything from household rubbish to bedroom furniture.
“Illegal dumping can contaminate items that have been correctly placed in the bins and it also places a burden on charity groups who spend a considerable amount of time sorting and removing items.
“The recently introduced Code of Practice for Charity Bins has consolidated the location of charity bins from over 55 locations to 14, which has significantly reduced the amount of illegal dumping, however it is still an issue is some locations.
“Rangers will be targeting these locations, and can issue an on-the-spot fine of $200 to people who illegally dump rubbish around charity bins.
“Local resource management centres, charity shops and second-hand dealers are better options for larger reusable items rather than leaving them near charity bins.
“Put simply, illegal dumping takes resources away from those who need them the most and creates an eyesore for the rest of the community.”
People who witness illegal dumping around charity bins should call Canberra Connect on 13 22 81.
For a full list of charity bin locations please visit the TAMS website