The Hume City Council in Melbourne's northern suburbs is raising alarms over the illegal dumping of tyres, with estimates indicating that approximately 14,700 tyres are discarded annually within its jurisdiction. The council claims that this problem not only poses environmental risks, including the potential for fires, but also incurs substantial costs, amounting to $5 million each year for cleanup efforts. The residents have been vocal about the prevalence of illegal dumping in their neighborhoods, which often includes not just tyres but also a variety of other waste, thus raising concerns about public health and safety.

As part of its response to this growing issue, the council is calling for the implementation of a free tyre recycling program by the federal government, which it believes could significantly mitigate the problem of illegal dumping. This request comes amid a broader parliamentary inquiry into Australia's tyre industry, which aims to assess the management and recycling of used tyres. The inquiry reflects the government's interest in tackling waste management issues more effectively, given that over 67 million used tyres are generated across the country every year.

The Hume City Council's advocacy highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address illegal dumping in not just the local area but throughout Victoria. With the growing population and rapid expansion of Melbourne's outer suburbs, the rising tide of illegally dumped waste poses not only an environmental challenge but also underscores the need for coordinated action across various levels of government to protect community health and enhance urban livability.