In a matter of seconds, the pair spray graffiti on a roller shutter before walking away.

Mr Mealey said there had been seven incidents in the past few months, each costing his business $200 to assist with graffiti removal and repainting and the vandalism often extended up to 1km down the street.

He said he had not reported the December 29 incident to police, but had reported previous incidents and had seen few results.

"They don't take much notice," he said.

Lake Illawarra police Sergeant Stephen Agius said officers in the command were actively working to prevent graffiti and urged Mr Mealey to contact police about acts of vandalism.

"Every incident that is reported is investigated," he said.

Shellharbour City Council Safer Communities campaign co-ordinator Cassandra Kanitz said the council aimed to present a range of options for combating graffiti including engaging with young people through a part-time youth development worker, removing graffiti as quickly as possible and educating the public about how to prevent graffiti.

Mr Mealey said the vandalism was a source of "street cred" for those responsible.