As a family, we know too well that our general waste bin fills up over the course of a week. This situation is the same for many in Cessnock, where our red bins/general waste collection is set to change from weekly to fortnightly due to a new council proposal.

The aim of this proposal is said to be effective waste management, but it overlooks the rates that we all pay, which instead of decreasing, only keep increasing. However, in return, our services are being reduced. This goes against the fundamental principles of efficient public service delivery and disregards our basic rights to hygienic and timely waste disposal.

Making this change will have a significant impact on our daily lives – an overflowing bin or the need to personally take our waste to the local waste management facility and pay for its disposal. These aren't pleasant scenarios to think about and certainly are not what we expect for our increasing council rates.

Such policy amendments can lead to serious public dissatisfaction and potential health implications.

We shouldn't have to pay a higher price for a compromised waste management service!

It's time to show our resistance and say NO to fortnightly collection of general waste. We urge fellow residents of Cessnock to stand in solidarity against this unjust proposition. Please voice your opinion and sign this petition. With your help, we can send a strong message to our council to reconsider their decision.