The Nationals in government will guarantee Gippslanders a weekly general rubbish collection, according to The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien who has backed the commitment as a commonsense measure that will make life easier for families.
Mr O’Brien said households across Gippsland were paying more for waste services while receiving less, with many councils moving to fortnightly rubbish collections.
“For families with young children, larger households, elderly residents and people managing medical needs, waiting two weeks for a rubbish collection simply isn’t practical,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Weekly rubbish collection is an essential council service and Gippsland families should be able to rely on having their red bin emptied every week.”
Mr O’Brien said that while waste collection was generally a council responsibility, Labor’s policies had increased costs and contributed to poorer outcomes for households.
“Labor has dramatically increased the landfill levy, which has added to council costs and ultimately impacts ratepayers.
“I believe our local councils are doing their best, but when residents are paying more and getting less, it’s time for the State Government to step in and provide some commonsense leadership.
“A weekly red bin collection should be the minimum standard for households, regardless of where they live.”
The Nationals in government will require councils to provide weekly general rubbish collections for households, review the rate of the landfill levy and apply the rates cap to council waste charges.
Mr O’Brien said the commitment will provide certainty for households while helping address growing concerns about waste management costs.
“This is about restoring a basic service that many people expect and rely on.
“Families shouldn’t have to worry about overflowing bins or storing rubbish for a fortnight. Weekly collections are a simple, sensible service that helps keep homes and communities clean.”
The commitment forms part of The Nationals’ plan to ease cost-of-living pressures and ensure Gippsland families receive better value for the charges they pay.
