The Merri-Bek Council has announced plans to change the frequency of rubbish collections from weekly to fortnightly starting from mid-2027. This decision has raised significant concerns among residents about the potential health, environmental, and quality of life impacts.

The reality of this potential future of a fortnightly bin change was exacerbated by industrial action in the week of 6th of April, where many residents in Pascoe Vale and surrounding suburbs were impacted, causing many to be over capacity and cause illegal dumping.

Weekly rubbish collection is vital for maintaining public hygiene and ensuring a clean community environment. Reducing the frequency to every two weeks will likely lead to an increase in vermin and pests as more waste accumulates outside homes. This can result in unpleasant odors, increased litter, and potential health hazards for residents.

Furthermore, communities with similar changes have reported rises in illegal dumping, as people grapple with managing excess waste. These issues further burden public spaces and local resources, requiring additional clean-up efforts which ultimately increase costs for both the council and the community.

Merri-Bek is a growing area. As the population increases, so does the volume of waste generated. A more practical solution would be to invest in waste management systems that support sustainable practices through recycling and composting, rather than reducing essential services.

We urge the Merri-Bek Council to reconsider their decision and maintain the weekly rubbish collection schedule. The council should engage with the community on how to address growing waste concerns without compromising public health or increasing community costs.

Please sign this petition to let the Merri-Bek Council know that the residents oppose the change to a fortnightly rubbish pickup. Let's work together to find a more viable solution that benefits everyone involved. Your support is crucial in ensuring our community remains clean, safe, and sustainable for all.