Types of Waste Accepted
Different facilities accept different types of waste. Here's what you can dispose of at Australian rubbish tips and recycling centres.
General Waste
Household rubbish that cannot be recycled
Accepted Items
- • Food scraps
- • Dirty packaging
- • Broken ceramics
- • Cigarette butts
- • Pet waste
Not Accepted
- • Recyclables
- • Hazardous materials
- • E-waste
- • Large items
💡 Pro Tip
Most tips accept general waste in standard garbage bags. Fees typically range from $10-30 per car load.
Green Waste
Organic garden materials and yard clippings
Accepted Items
- • Grass clippings
- • Leaves
- • Small branches
- • Plant trimmings
- • Tree prunings (under 15cm diameter)
Not Accepted
- • Treated timber
- • Plastic pots
- • Soil
- • Rocks
- • Weeds with seeds
💡 Pro Tip
Green waste is often processed into mulch. Many councils offer free or discounted disposal for residents.
Recycling
Materials that can be processed into new products
Accepted Items
- • Paper & cardboard
- • Glass bottles & jars
- • Aluminium cans
- • Plastic bottles (1-7)
- • Steel cans
Not Accepted
- • Contaminated items
- • Polystyrene
- • Plastic bags
- • Light globes
- • Mirrors
💡 Pro Tip
Clean items only. Remove lids and caps. Check your local council guidelines for specific requirements.
Electronic Waste (E-Waste)
Electronic devices and computer equipment
Accepted Items
- • Computers & laptops
- • Mobile phones
- • TVs & monitors
- • Printers
- • Small appliances
Not Accepted
- • Batteries (separate collection)
- • Fluorescent tubes
- • Large whitegoods
- • Items with fluids
💡 Pro Tip
Many electronics contain valuable materials. Look for dedicated e-waste collection events in your area.
Hazardous Waste
Dangerous materials requiring special handling
Accepted Items
- • Paint & solvents
- • Chemicals & pesticides
- • Motor oil
- • Car batteries
- • Gas bottles
Not Accepted
- • Asbestos
- • Medical waste
- • Radioactive materials
- • Explosive items
💡 Pro Tip
Only take to designated hazardous waste facilities. Never mix different chemicals. Bring in original containers.
Construction & Demolition
Building materials and renovation waste
Accepted Items
- • Clean concrete
- • Bricks & tiles
- • Clean timber
- • Metal materials
- • Plasterboard
Not Accepted
- • Asbestos materials
- • Contaminated soil
- • Treated timber
- • Insulation with backing
💡 Pro Tip
Higher fees apply for construction waste. Some materials may be recycled. Check for asbestos before disposal.
Typical Disposal Fees by State
Fees vary by location and facility type. These are typical ranges for public rubbish tips and transfer stations.
| State/Territory | Car Load | Trailer Load | Green Waste |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $15-25 | $30-50 | $8-15/m³ |
| VIC | $12-20 | $25-45 | $6-12/m³ |
| QLD | $10-18 | $20-40 | $5-10/m³ |
| WA | $14-22 | $28-48 | $7-14/m³ |
| SA | $13-21 | $26-46 | $6-13/m³ |
| TAS | $12-19 | $24-42 | $5-11/m³ |
| ACT | $16-26 | $32-52 | $8-16/m³ |
| NT | $15-23 | $30-48 | $7-15/m³ |
* Fees are indicative only and vary by council and facility. Contact your local tip for current pricing.
⚠️ Important Guidelines
Before You Go
- • Check opening hours and fees
- • Separate different waste types
- • Bring proof of residence if required
- • Have cash ready (many don't accept cards)
Safety First
- • Wear closed shoes and long pants
- • Secure loads properly for transport
- • Follow site directions and speed limits
- • Keep children supervised at all times