We’re developing a new Waste and Recycling Strategy to see us through to 2030, to ensure our waste, recycling, and public litter services continue to meet the needs of our growing community and align with the Victorian Government's 10-year action plan to cut waste and boost recycling and reuse of our precious resources.

Council is keen to hear from all residents, including owners and renters. We also want to hear from businesses and community organisations, including schools and childcare providers – even if you do not use Council’s waste and recycling service.

We’re inviting feedback on areas where your input can directly shape the strategy, including:

• Hard waste collection services

• Soft plastics drop-off program

• Electronic waste drop-off program

• Waste education to encourage responsible waste habits across the community

• Waste and recycling services for apartments and businesses

• Waste to energy solutions

• Enforcement around illegal dumping or bin contamination

• Review the three stream public bin service

• Collaboration with community Clean-Up and sustainability groups

• Technology to improve service efficiency

Some aspects of our waste and recycling service are decided by the Victorian Government and cannot be changed by Council, specifically:

1. The four-bin system is mandatory - Hobsons Bay, like all 79 Victorian councils must have a standard four bin system in place by 2030. This is required under the Recycling and Circular Economy Act 2021. You can learn more here.
2. What goes in each bin is being determined by the Victorian Government - The Victorian Government is finalising a standard list of what can go in each bin. This standardised list will apply across all councils in Victoria. Because of this, Council can’t commit to changes like accepting soft plastics in the mixed recycling bin or allowing compostable plastic bags in the food/garden bin. We will share updates with the community as soon as the State-approved acceptance lists are confirmed.

All input will help shape the Draft Waste and Recycling Strategy 2030. You’ll have another opportunity to provide feedback when the draft is released in 2026.

You can:

a) Fill in the online survey

b) Fill in a paper copy of the survey included with your Rates notice (if you are a ratepayer receiving paper communications). Please return using the provided reply paid return envelope.

c) Attend a pop-up or drop-in session

d) Keep an eye out for updates on Council’s social media and newsletters

Email us at enviro@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au or post your question on the Q&A section of our Participate page.