Call for community support to prevent theft and dumping on building sites

The City of Greater Geraldton supports the Master Builders Association’s awareness campaign that asks the public to keep a look out for, and report, suspicious activity around building sites.

Both theft and illegal rubbish dumping on building sites are costly for new home owners, builders, and the environment.

The City’s Manager of Urban and Regional Development, Murray Connell, reinforced comments made by Master Builders Association Midwest Regional Manager, Di Gilleland, that millions of dollars in damages and theft on building sites and newly completed homes ready for handover are reported by builders every day.

“It is sad to say that many thefts are conducted right under our very noses,” she said.
Ms Gilleland said that vandalism to new homes causes stress to the new home owner and adds cost and time to the builder.

The Master Builders Association has also advised that dumping waste in builders’ bins is also illegal and can attract fines under the Litter Act of up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for businesses.

The City’s Regional Waste and Energy Manager, Mark Wong, is also behind the campaign, reiterating the Master Builders Association’s concerns that dumping is unsightly, sometimes unhygienic and can contribute even more waste to landfill.

“Building waste, where it’s not interfered with by non-building site waste, is separated into diverse waste streams at the Meru Waste Disposal Facility for recycling purposes,” said Mr Wong.

Vigilance by community members in reporting suspicious activity can interrupt criminals and reduce the damage bill to wallets and the environment. People should contact the police to report vandalism on 9923 4555 or the illegal dumping hotline on 1300 766 541.