Published on Thursday, 14 May 2026 at 1:11:40 PM
The City of Busselton Council has endorsed its Schedule of Fees and Charges for the 2026/27 financial year, including updates to waste facilities’ gate fees and the introduction of proof of residency requirements. These changes form part of the City’s ongoing commitment to delivering financially sustainable and equitable waste management services.
The revised fee structure responds to the increasing number of users from outside the City of Busselton accessing the City’s waste facilities and taking advantage of comparatively low tipping fees. The changes are designed to strike a fair balance between supporting local households, while ensuring those with no proof of residency are appropriately charged for the cost to provide these services. As an example, gate fees to dispose of household waste in a single axle 6x4 trailer with proof of residency has increased by $1.00 (new fee now $10.00), whereas if no proof of residency is provided, the new fee of $40.00 will be incurred.
While Council acknowledges the cost-of-living pressures facing many households, it is important that those who live in or contribute to the City through rates are prioritised. The City’s fees remain among the lowest in the region. The updates will help manage growing demand on waste infrastructure and ensure the long-term sustainability of these essential services.
As part of the new measures, all customers will be required to present proof of residency or ratepayer status when disposing of waste at City facilities. This applies to all users, including regular visitors, as gatehouse staff are unable to verify residency without documentation. Acceptable forms of proof include a driver’s licence, rates notice or utility bill showing the person’s name corresponding to an address within the City of Busselton.
This requirement is a practical step to reduce the volume of waste being brought in from outside the district, which has placed increasing pressure on landfill capacity and driven up operational costs.
The City will continue to support residents and ratepayers through initiatives such as tip vouchers and free domestic recycling drop-off for selected items. Further details on eligible materials are available on the City’s website.
Mayor Phill Cronin said the changes are necessary to protect the long-term viability of waste services for the local community. “By introducing a differentiated fee structure for non-residents, the City is ensuring that the cost of waste management more accurately reflects those who contribute through rates.”
“Requiring proof of residency or ratepayer status is a simple but important step to prioritise access to waste management services and infrastructure for our community, help safeguard the City’s landfill capacity and reduce the financial impact of external use.”
The new fees and requirements will come into effect from 1 July 2026. For more information, including recycling tips, visit the City’s website. The City thanks the community for its cooperation and patience whilst these changes are implemented and encourages all visitors to engage respectfully with staff at waste facilities.
Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with the City of Busselton’s Council Plan (2024 - 2034) Key Theme Environment – An environment that is valued, conserved and able to be enjoyed by current and future generations.
Ends. Media enquiries can be directed to pr@busselton.wa.gov.au
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