An Ipswich rubbish dump is facing more than $30 million in fines for alleged environmental breaches after resident complaints sparked an “extensive investigation”.

Residents who live near the New Chum facility complained more than 20,000 times since 2018, leading to an odour abatement taskforce being set up by the state government.

Cleanaway is now facing 12 charges, including alleged wilful environmental nuisance, the Department of Environment and Science said.

Ipswich Mayor Theresa Harding told Neil Breen the update is vindicating for residents who complained.

“This goes to show to the people of Ipswich it does matter,” she said. “I don’t think this would’ve happened without them.”

Press PLAY below to hear the Mayor’s reaction in full 

Image: A Current Affair