Queensland waste levy

The Queensland Government has developed a Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy to reduce the amount of waste generated, transition to a circular economy and grow the resource recovery and recycling industry, which will create new jobs. 

The strategy is supported by the waste levy, which applies to waste disposed to landfill by residents and businesses. The waste levy is implemented across 39 Queensland local government areas, including City of Moreton Bay.

The waste levy seeks to:

  • encourage resource recovery and recycling
  • discourage landfill disposal
  • provide funding for programs to promote resource recovery and better waste management practices
  • secure and increase the quantity of recyclable materials captured for processing
  • facilitate industry investment in resource recovery initiatives.

Until 30 June 2023, the Queensland Government provided an annual payment to City of Moreton Bay to offset the cost of the waste levy. This meant that there was no direct financial impact on residents for the disposal of household waste to landfill.

From 1 July 2023, this payment will be reduced annually, while the waste levy charge increases. This is outlined in the regulation and will result in an increasing cost for both City of Moreton Bay and ratepayers.

We acknowledge the importance of resource recovery efforts and we are working towards achieving the aims of the Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy. This is demonstrated through the introduction of a kerbside garden organics collection service, due to commence in December 2024.

Councils are required to collect the levy on behalf of the State Government.

The Queensland Government’s waste levy on general waste disposed to landfill for the 2024-25 financial year is $115 per tonne, excluding GST.

The waste levy does not apply to recycled materials, so make sure you continue to use your yellow bin and the recycling areas at our waste facilities.

There are exemptions from the waste levy, which include disposal of asbestos and waste generated as the result of a disaster or serious local event.

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