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Last Updated: Tuesday, 04 February 2025 16:00

The Queensland State Government waste reduction targets have mandated that all local governments reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. 

Our targets for 2050 include:

• 25% reduction in household waste
• 90% of waste recovered and not in landfill and
• 75% recycling rates across all waste types. 

Bin audits

The latest bin audit showed that 70% of waste in the average general waste bin in Toowoomba can be avoided, reused or recycled. 

• 33% is food waste
• 24% is green waste and 
• 13% is recyclables. 

Cost of waste

One of our key considerations when planning and delivering services to the community is the cost of living to residents.

Council pays a 'tax', or waste levy, on all waste that goes to landfill. Constructing lined landfills adds to the cost of providing a environmentally responsible waste management system. 

Kerbside waste collection contract

Our kerbside waste collection contract allows fortnightly recycling and green waste services. This is the best balance between costs and our waste collection needs. To increase the service frequency, even for a short time, would increase the cost of the service. 

Related information

Queensland Government waste reduction strategies and plans

Bin services & maintenance

Kerbside collection service

Waste facilities - operating hours, locations, fees and accepted waste materials