Wingecarribee Shire Council Expands Waste Services for All Residents

Wingecarribee Shire Council is expanding its domestic waste management services in the 2024/2025 financial year to ensure all residents across the Shire receive essential waste collection services. This expansion is a key step in meeting both statutory requirements and ambitious environmental targets set by the NSW Government. 

“Council is fulfilling its statutory obligations under Section 496 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), which requires us to levy an annual charge for domestic waste management services on all rateable land where the service is provided or proposed to be provided.” said Clinton McAlister, Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Manager, Waste and Resource Management. “If our collection truck passes by a property, the service is considered available, and the associated charges will apply accordingly.”  

This expansion will provide all residents with access to a comprehensive recycling service, helping to increase the diversion of waste from landfill. Additionally, residents will now have access to bulky waste collection services, making it easier to responsibly dispose of large or hard-to-manage items. 

Supporting NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2030 

This expanded service is critical to achieving the NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2030 targets, particularly the goal of diverting 75% of waste from landfill. By extending recycling services to all residents within the Shire, Council is taking a significant step towards these environmental targets, including the future integration of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) services. 

Ongoing Collaboration with Contractors 

Since June, Council has been working closely with its waste management contractor and third-party commercial contractors to assess the potential impacts on local businesses and to ensure a smooth transition as services expand. This partnership is vital as Council moves towards the introduction of comprehensive waste collection services for all residents by July 2026, addressing the shortcomings of the former contract. 

Guaranteeing Continuous Waste Collection 

Council assures all residents that there will be no disruption in waste collection services during this transition period. Whether through the current or a new contractor, waste collection will continue uninterrupted. This commitment will enable Council to meet the upcoming FOGO requirements and maintain high standards of waste management across the Shire. 

This initiative not only ensures compliance with state regulations but also reinforces Council's dedication to environmental sustainability, ultimately benefiting the entire Wingecarribee community. 

For further information or to discuss the upcoming changes, residents are encouraged to contact Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Customer Service Team on 02 4868 0888 or email us at mail@wsc.nsw.gov.au