Residents are taking a high-tech approach to reporting issues to their local council, with a new smartphone app changing the way citizens communicate and complain.

A broken swing, gaping pothole, rabid dog or any other issue can be photographed and communicated instantly to the relevant local council’s inbox with an app called Snap Send Solve, launched by Melbourne-based programmer Danny Gorog.

Up to 50,000 people have used the app so far across 60 different councils, with damaged roads, pavements and improper parking practices coming out as the most commonly-reported issues.

Hobsons Bay Mayor Angela Altair is fully in favour, saying “it means we are able to increase engagement with community members and respond to their needs as quickly as possible... we're exploring integrating the smartphone application into our website and recommending the system to our residents.”