The Don't be a Tosser! campaign, led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), is a state-wide initiative aimed at reducing litter and encouraging responsible waste disposal across New South Wales. Littering poses significant environmental, social, and economic challenges, impacting waterways, harming wildlife, and diminishing the natural beauty of public spaces. This campaign directly confronts littering behaviour through bold messaging, public engagement, and education to shift attitudes and promote accountability.
A key element of the campaign’s success lies in empowering residents to take an active role by reporting littering when they see it occur. Community reporting not only helps authorities identify and address problem areas, but also acts as a deterrent by increasing the perceived risk of enforcement. By holding individuals accountable, reporting supports a cleaner, safer environment and reinforces a shared sense of responsibility. Through collective action and civic participation, the Don't be a Tosser! campaign drives positive behavioural change and helps build a more sustainable and respectful community for all.
Report a tosser online
Report littering from vehicles (a Tosser) is a simple process and can be completed online here. These reports go to the NSW EPA and not Council.
Reporting sends a strong message to litterers:
- that their behaviour will not be tolerated
- makes litterers aware that anyone from the community can be a reporter
- increases the perception that tossers can be seen and fined for littering from a vehicle
Fines ranging from $500 for an individual and $1,000 for a corporation can be issued from your report.
Ever wondered where litter goes when dropped on the ground?
Rubbish and litter can travel thousands of kilometres, moving through local water ways and eventually in to the ocean.
Do you know how long some items will take to break down?
Some items will begin to breakdown after a few years and some will outlive you and several generations to come. Enter your birth year to find out which items will outlive you if they were littered the year you were born.
What can you do to reduce litter in your life?
Check out these suggestions and make a pledge to put it in the bin and protect the environment.
What else is happening in an attempt to reduce litter volumes in the state in terms of actions, research and studies, resources and grants?
Find out here by clicking the "What else is happening" heading.