WA Waste Authority Revises Green Bin Rules, Excluding Several Items

The state Waste Authority quietly amended the list of permissible materials for Western Australia's green organic (FOGO) bins, barring previously accepted items such as pet poo, tea bags, paper towels and used pizza boxes. Updated guidance, posted on the authority's website on July 10, now restricts bin use to garden waste, unpackaged food waste and approved compostable liners. Councils anticipate resident confusion and pushback, given recent cuts to fortnightly general waste collection.

Mark Irwin, mayor of the City of Stirling and president of the WA Local Government Association, explained the change aims to keep the compost stream pure and avoid contamination from items containing PFAS chemicals. He called for a strong, state-led communication strategy and consistent leadership to support councils facing community resistance. The revisions also render some printed bin instructions inaccurate, adding to the logistical challenges for local governments.