For many years, residents of Redlands City have enjoyed free disposal of green waste at our local Waste Management Centres. It’s a simple service that provides tremendous value to our community, keeping our gardens and outdoor spaces beautiful while promoting environmentally friendly practices. However, a recent council decision has abruptly altered this, with charges now being imposed on green waste disposal. This decision will have a significant impact on Redlands City residents and ratepayers, and we urge the council to reconsider.

Support Cr. Julie Talty's MOTION:
MOTION
That Council resolves as follows:
1. To exempt residential (personal) green waste from disposal fees and charges at Council’s Recycling and Waste Transfer Centres.
2. To exempt green-waste-only loads from being counted towards the annual residential vehicle visit allowance (currently 12 visits).
4. That, where a load contains general mixed waste, contaminated green waste, or any other waste stream for which a specific charge applies, the applicable fees and charges continue to apply.
5. To amend the Register of Fees 2026-2027 to incorporate this resolution to take effect from 1 December 2026, with any required update of the fee schedule to come to council at the November General Meeting.
6. To authorise the Chief Executive Officer to implement all administrative and operational requirements to give effect to this resolution.
BACKGROUND
Redland City residents value practical, accessible and affordable waste services that support both household needs and environmental outcomes.
Council recently considered arrangements for residential waste disposal services at the Birkdale and Redland Bay Recycling and Waste Centres. The approach sought to balance affordability, service sustainability and equitable access for residents.
This Mayoral Minute proposes a refined approach to the management of residential green waste, recognising clean, source-separated green waste as a recoverable resource that can be diverted from landfill and beneficially reused. Encouraging the separation of green waste from general mixed waste supports landfill diversion and aligns with broader waste reduction objectives.
The proposed arrangements provide targeted cost-of-living relief by removing fees for residential green waste disposal and where loads consist solely of green waste, and that are brought by residents and not commercial operators, do not count towards annual residential waste disposal visit allowances.
The proposed arrangements seek to balance environmental outcomes, operational practicality and affordability for Redland City residents.
Noting that although removal of greenwaste from island communities attracts costs 2.4 times that of greenwaste accumulated through waste transfer stations on the mainland, the current visit and fee structure applies only to residents of the mainland.

By signing this petition, you help us send a clear message to the Redlands City Council: reverse the recent decision to impose charges on green waste disposal. Let’s continue to support a sustainable, eco-friendly community where managing our waste isn’t a matter of financial capability. Sign this petition to stand with your fellow residents to maintain free green waste disposal at our Waste Management Centres. Together, let's protect our environment and community spirit.