The war against illegal dumping and littering is being stepped up with fines starting today for those who flout the state's tough new litter laws.

Environment Minister Vicky Darling said today marked the end of the grace period on fining people who flout our tough new litter laws.

"From today, those who litter or illegally dump their rubbish can expect to be fined.

"Queenslanders are sick of litter and its time we clean up our act.

"Those caught littering can face fines from $200 to $4000 (if contested in court) and those illegally dumping rubbish will face fines from $1600 to $100,000 (if contested in court).

"Last year we announced a new online reporting system where people witnessing illegal littering could report it.

"We've given people time to adjust to the new system - we received 386 reports of littering and illegal dumping and issued advisory notices to 299 people.

"The grace period is over and it's time to get tough on those that toss their rubbish into our parklands, creeks and public areas.

"The stricter penalties have been brought about to encourage people to take responsibility for their rubbish and dispose of it thoughtfully and appropriately.

"I call on Queenslanders to see it, report it, stop it at www.derm.qld.gov.au/waste"

"Simply record what you saw, when and where, and note the vehicle registration and any other details about the vehicle you can provide then complete the online form on the DERM website.

"I would like to thank our partners Keep Australia Beautiful, Healthy Waterways, Queensland Youth Council, Queensland Litter Prevention Alliance and local councils who play such an important role in raising awareness about cleaning up our state.

"Together we can make Queensland a cleaner, safer place to live," Ms Darling said.

Ms Darling also announced the creation of a taskforce to work alongside councils throughout the state to combat littering.

"Clean up of littering and dumping often falls to local government - our taskforce will provide on the ground assistance with data collection, compliance and community education.

Environment | The Honourable Vicky Darling | 01/02/2012