Tip fees could rise

By Tania Martin
CARDINIA Shire residents could see a rise in their waste disposal bills this year, following a 233 per cent increase in council landfill levies.
The State Government recently announced the move to increase fees from $9 per tonne to $30 per tonne on rubbish dumped at landfill sites across Victoria.
The decision is expected to have a massive impact on 2010-11 council budgets.
In Cardinia Shire the increase is anticipated to cost the council more than $370,000.
Spokesman Paul Dunlop said the jump would equate to an additional $330,000 for domestic waste disposal and a further $40,000 for hard waste.
State Government spokesman Chris Owner said the increase would only equate to a 20 per cent a week jump for ratepayers.
He said the move would lead to greater recycling and the creation of more than 700 jobs over the next five years.
“Victorians are already very good at recycling but there is more we can do,” Mr Owner said.
Mr Dunlop said although the council had not made any firm decisions on it 2010-11 rates, the increase would add significantly to the cost of services.
“We are committed to providing residents with the most efficient waste management services which include reducing the amount of waste going to landfill,” Mr Dunlop said.
But Mr Owner said all Victorians needed to play their part in creating a sustainable future.