The Mid North Coast Group of Councils (MIDGOC) has formally objected to the New South Wales Government’s waste levy.
Mayors and General Managers representing MIDGOC have lodged their objection at a meeting between with NSW Environment Minister Robyn Parker.
The Waste Levy was introduced in the early 1990’s and currently provides the State Government with around $368 million in taxes.
With plans to increase the levy from $31.10 per tonne to around $42 per tonne, MIDGOC members say the Government has continually failed to provide details of the distribution of funds to waste education and recycling initiatives.
According to MIDGOC Chairman, Coffs Harbour Mayor Keith Rhodes, many ratepayers blame their Council for the increase without understanding the NSW Government’s role.
“Most MIDGOC councils have reported an increase in illegal dumping since the levy was brought in.
“This creates a double whammy for ratepayers. Not only are they paying the levy, but they may ultimately pay more in fees to fund the recovery of illegally dumped waste.”
It is estimated that MIDGOC councils will pay $5 million this year and more when the levy increases next year.
“This is a significant injection into state funding. On behalf of our communities, we have a right to know what this money is being spent on.” Mayor Rhodes said.
“MIDGOC councils believe that the waste levy is not a genuine levy, in which all funds collected are used to benefit improved waste management behaviour and practices.
“This levy is, in fact, a tax to raise money for other government services. The community blames councils for increasing the tipping fees, when it is in fact the State Government that has caused the fees to rise.”
“While we understand the funding shortfall that would result from the removal of the levy, we are united in our resolve to have this tax removed. We do not want our communities unfairly slugged.”
