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1300 366 244The updated policy aligns with state legislation and supports Victoria’s move toward a circular economy, while preparing the region for a mandatory three bin system from 2026.
The new policy introduces a refined three bin kerbside system that will become standard across Declared Collection Areas from 2026. This will see all eligible households provided with a general 120L rubbish bin (collected fortnightly), 240L recycling bin (collected fortnightly) and a 240L Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) bin (collected weekly) as part of its standard kerbside service. Council will also continue to offer an annual hard waste collection to all properties that receive a kerbside service, helping residents responsibly dispose of bulky items and reducing illegal dumping.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cindy Madeley said the changes were designed to empower the community to play a clearer and more active role in protecting the environment, while giving residents more flexibility.
“These updates give residents a simple, consistent and modern waste system that makes it easier to reduce what goes to landfill,” she said.
“The introduction of FOGO in particular is a major step forward, allowing people to take everyday actions that have meaningful environmental benefits.”
A major improvement in the proposed policy is the added flexibility for residents to add extra bins individually (rubbish, recycling or FOGO) based on their household’s needs. Previously, residents could only increase capacity by adding both a general rubbish and recycling bin together.
“This new approach is fairer and more practical. Every household is different, and now people can increase capacity where it’s actually needed,” Cr Madeley said.
FOGO is expected to divert around 3000 tonnes of organic material from landfill each year, cutting emissions and supporting the creation of compost and soil conditioners. Council will continue to support residents through education and clear information to ensure the transition is smooth.
A recent audit showed recycling contamination sits at 15 per cent, and reducing this to below 10 per cent could save ratepayers around $70,000 annually. To help achieve this, Council is introducing a staged process that focuses on education before enforcement.
“We want to give residents the tools and knowledge to recycle correctly, because most contamination is avoidable with the right guidance,” Cr Madeley said.
The new policy replaces the previous 2025 version and provides clearer rules, stronger contamination management and more consistent service delivery for the community. It also supports the Council Plan 2025–29 and its commitment to protecting Wellington’s natural environment for future generations.
The Wellington Shire Council is inviting residents to provide feedback on the proposed Waste Collection Policy and Waste Services Guideline. Community members can review the documents and share their views by visiting Council’s Your Wellington Your Say page, helping ensure the updated waste process reflects the needs and expectations of households across Wellington Shire.
To have your say, visit your.wellington.vic.gov.au
For assistance or further information, phone Council on 1300 366 244 or email waste@wellington.vic.gov.au