Council backs next step for green bins

Published on 17 June 2026

• Council endorses next stage of planning for a kerbside green bin service
• Proposed service could divert more than 6,700 tonnes of organic waste from landfill a year
• Any proposed rollout is still a couple of years away, with implementation planning to continue

Fraser Coast Regional Council has endorsed the next stage of planning for a future kerbside green bin service that could divert more than 6,700 tonnes of organic waste from landfill each year.

Resource Recovery spokesperson Michelle Byrne said the decision followed a comprehensive review of the business case for a kerbside organics collection service.

“Council has been investigating green bins for several years as part of our long-term waste strategy, and this decision allows us to continue the planning needed to determine exactly how a service could work on the Fraser Coast,” she said.

“More than 40 per cent of what currently goes into our general waste bins is made up of garden clippings, grass, leaves and food scraps.

“When this material ends up in landfill, it takes up valuable space that could otherwise be used for waste that can't be recycled or recovered.

“A separate green bin service would allow more of that material to be turned into useful products such as compost and mulch instead of being buried in landfill.

“The business case found a future organics collection service could help extend the life of the Maryborough landfill by diverting thousands of tonnes of organic waste each year.

“It would also help Council work towards state waste reduction and recycling targets while helping manage future waste costs.”

The Queensland Government’s waste levy is designed to encourage councils and communities to recycle more and send less waste to landfill.

Cr Byrne said the decision did not mean green bins would be introduced immediately.

“This decision is about completing the detailed planning work needed to determine whether and how a green bin service could be introduced on the Fraser Coast,” she said.

“Council will now undertake more detailed planning, including funding applications, service design, procurement planning, community education requirements and a review of different bin size options.

“That work will come back to Council for further consideration before any final decision is made.

“We know residents have been waiting for an update since the community consultation undertaken in 2023, and we've taken the time to carefully assess the costs, benefits and challenges before moving forward.

“If the project ultimately proceeds, residents would have plenty of notice and opportunities to learn about the service well before any rollout occurs.”

The next stage of planning will take place during 2026 and 2027, with any potential rollout not expected before 2028.