Plant material that breaks down naturally into nutrient-rich compost is called green organics waste. Green waste is processed into compost or mulch, which is reused to improve soil and support gardens, parks and agriculture.
Green organics bins are collected fortnightly.
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Your green organics bin
Put green organics waste in your green bin.
Accepted items:
- grass clippings and leaves
- garden prunings and weeds
- flowers and plant cuttings
- small branches, logs and tree trimmings (up to 40cm).
What doesn't go in your green organics bin
Green bins are for natural plant material only. Contamination can ruin compost and cause green material to be sent to landfill.
Do not place in your green bin:
- plastic bags, plant pots, ties or packaging
- food waste
- soil, rocks or stones
- treated or painted timber
- general waste or recyclables
- animal waste or manure
- hazardous materials or chemicals.
Not sure what goes where? Search over 40,000 items using Recycle right.
How to get a green bin
We don’t offer upsized green organics bins because organic waste is often heavier and the extra weight could damage bins and collection trucks.
Instead, you can order an additional green organics bin.
- multiple bins will be collected on your usual collection day
- annual service fee: $80.76 per bin
- property owners and tenants can apply (body corporate approval may be required).
Taking green waste to a waste and recycling centre
You can take green waste to a waste and recycling centre's green organics drop and go area.
- Suitable for larger loads (limits apply)
- Free if no general waste is included
- A $5 gate fee applies to loads that include general waste
Find out more about how waste and recycling centres work, including locations and opening hours.
Important changes to Merrimac Waste and Recycling Centre
The Green Organics Drop and Go at Merrimac is temporarily closed to make way for an important sewerage infrastructure upgrade, commencing earlier than planned.
We are building a new green organics pad at Merrimac, expected to open in March 2027. To find out where you can take your green organics during the closure, visit our WRC maps.
Kerbside collection
You can book an on-demand FLEXiSKiP kerbside collection for green waste.
Get ready for storm season
Keep green waste under control to reduce risks during storm season. Loose branches and garden debris can become dangerous in strong winds, so regular tidy-ups and proper disposal help keep your home and community safe.
Find out more about how to prepare for extreme weather.
Help stop the spread of fire ants
Proper disposal of green waste helps prevent the spread of fire ants, which can hide in soil and organic material.
Learn more about the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.