In 2019, the Queensland Government introduced a waste disposal levy. Council pays this levy for every tonne of waste sent to landfill. This waste comes from:
The levy aims to encourage recycling and reduce landfill waste. It does not apply to recyclable items and garden organics.
The waste disposal levy for the 2026-27 financial year is $135 per tonne. This amount increases by $10 per tonne each year.
Council receives a rebate from the Queensland Government to help offset some of the cost. However, since 2023, the rebate has decreased each year while the levy has increased. As a result, ratepayers are being affected more by the cost of the levy.
Learn more about waste disposal levy charges.
Council pays the levy to the Queensland Government based on the amount of waste disposed of to landfill. Ratepayers contribute to the levy through the Waste Management Utility Charge included in their rates.
Businesses and commercial operators are charged for waste sent to landfill, as per Council’s fees and charges.
The levy does not apply to:
Learn more about waste disposal levy exemptions.
Every item diverted from landfill reduces disposal costs for our community. You can help by:
Learn more about how to send less to landfill.