Major bin changes coming soon—what households should know about new fees and rollout plans
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Big updates are on the way for local waste collection, with changes expected to impact how households manage rubbish.
The rollout aims to streamline services, but not everyone is thrilled about the added costs.
Some residents are still unclear about what the changes actually mean for their weekly routine.
Whether you’re a long-time homeowner, a renter, or just someone who likes to keep their garden tidy, here’s everything you need to know about the new bin rules, the extra fees, and what it all means for your hip pocket and the environment.
From August, every eligible household in the Brisbane City Council area will automatically receive a green waste bin—unless you specifically opt out.
This represents a significant shift from the previous system, where only those who requested a green bin were charged an additional fee.
Now, the council is moving to a flat waste fee for all, which means your annual waste bill will jump from $462.96 to $512.96—a $50 increase.
Why the Change?
The main goal is to reduce the amount of organic waste ending up in landfills.
According to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, only about 30% of eligible homes had a green bin under the old opt-in system.
That’s just 170,000 out of roughly 340,000 eligible homes. By making green bins the default, the council hopes to boost participation, cut landfill costs, and help the environment.
But there’s another reason: the state government’s 'bin tax' (officially called the waste levy).
Introduced in 2019, this levy charges councils $115 for every tonne of general waste sent to landfill, and it’s set to rise by $10 each year until 2028.
By diverting more green waste from landfill, the council estimates it could save up to $32 million over five years—savings that could help keep future rates in check.
How Will It Work?
Green bins are for garden waste only—think grass clippings, leaves, small branches, and weeds.
No food scraps, plastic, or general rubbish, please! The council will process this green waste into mulch and compost, helping to close the loop and reduce landfill.
What About the Stockpiles?
You might have heard about the 'mountains' of green bins sitting at council resource centres.
Lord Mayor Schrinner joked that the stockpiles are so big you could 'see them from space.'
Rest assured, the council says it’s ready for the rollout, with contracts in place and plenty of bins to go around.
How Does This Affect Renters?
Previously, many renters missed out on green waste collection because landlords had to order the bins.
Now, with the automatic rollout, renters will have access to green bins just like homeowners, making it easier for everyone to do their bit for the environment.
The Bigger Picture: Why Green Waste Matters
Organic waste in landfills creates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
By separating green waste, Brisbane can reduce emissions, create useful compost, and save money on landfill levies. It’s a win-win for the city and the planet.
Final Thoughts
Change can be a bit of a hassle, but this one could make a real difference for Brisbane’s environment—and maybe even your garden.
So, whether you’re a green thumb or just want to keep your rates down, it’s worth getting on board with the new bin system.
And remember, if you have any questions or concerns, your local council is just a phone call away.
Happy composting, Brisbane!
What do you think about the new bin rules? Will you use your green bin, or are you planning to opt out? Do you think the flat fee is fair, or is it just another cost-of-living increase? We’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you have for making the most of your green waste bin. Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
Read more: ‘Did you know the council is tracking what you throw out?’: Rubbish bin discovery sparks debate
The rollout aims to streamline services, but not everyone is thrilled about the added costs.
Some residents are still unclear about what the changes actually mean for their weekly routine.
Whether you’re a long-time homeowner, a renter, or just someone who likes to keep their garden tidy, here’s everything you need to know about the new bin rules, the extra fees, and what it all means for your hip pocket and the environment.
From August, every eligible household in the Brisbane City Council area will automatically receive a green waste bin—unless you specifically opt out.
A new flat annual waste fee of $512.96 has been introduced for all Brisbane households, with green waste bins to be rolled out from August. Credit: Google Maps
This represents a significant shift from the previous system, where only those who requested a green bin were charged an additional fee.
Now, the council is moving to a flat waste fee for all, which means your annual waste bill will jump from $462.96 to $512.96—a $50 increase.
The main goal is to reduce the amount of organic waste ending up in landfills.
According to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, only about 30% of eligible homes had a green bin under the old opt-in system.
That’s just 170,000 out of roughly 340,000 eligible homes. By making green bins the default, the council hopes to boost participation, cut landfill costs, and help the environment.
But there’s another reason: the state government’s 'bin tax' (officially called the waste levy).
Introduced in 2019, this levy charges councils $115 for every tonne of general waste sent to landfill, and it’s set to rise by $10 each year until 2028.
By diverting more green waste from landfill, the council estimates it could save up to $32 million over five years—savings that could help keep future rates in check.
How Will It Work?
- Automatic Green Bin Delivery: If you live in a stand-alone house, expect a green bin to appear at your property unless you opt out.
- Opt-Out Option: Don’t need a green bin? You can say no, but you’ll need to actively opt out.
- Apartment Residents: If you live in an apartment, you’ll still need to opt in to get a green bin.
- Flat Fee for All: The new $512.96 annual waste fee covers your regular rubbish, recycling, and now green waste collection.
Green bins are for garden waste only—think grass clippings, leaves, small branches, and weeds.
No food scraps, plastic, or general rubbish, please! The council will process this green waste into mulch and compost, helping to close the loop and reduce landfill.
You might have heard about the 'mountains' of green bins sitting at council resource centres.
Lord Mayor Schrinner joked that the stockpiles are so big you could 'see them from space.'
Rest assured, the council says it’s ready for the rollout, with contracts in place and plenty of bins to go around.
How Does This Affect Renters?
Previously, many renters missed out on green waste collection because landlords had to order the bins.
Now, with the automatic rollout, renters will have access to green bins just like homeowners, making it easier for everyone to do their bit for the environment.
Organic waste in landfills creates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
By separating green waste, Brisbane can reduce emissions, create useful compost, and save money on landfill levies. It’s a win-win for the city and the planet.
Final Thoughts
Change can be a bit of a hassle, but this one could make a real difference for Brisbane’s environment—and maybe even your garden.
So, whether you’re a green thumb or just want to keep your rates down, it’s worth getting on board with the new bin system.
And remember, if you have any questions or concerns, your local council is just a phone call away.
Happy composting, Brisbane!
Read more: ‘Did you know the council is tracking what you throw out?’: Rubbish bin discovery sparks debate
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