Food scraps and rubbish from shops and factories that are not disposed of properly can cause problems. Rotting food scraps mixed with other rubbish will begin to smell and will quickly attract cockroaches, rodents and flies.

It is important to ensure your rubbish is adequately protected from vermin and pests, and does not create an odour problem for you, or your neighbours. Your bins should be cleaned regularly (as part of a cleaning schedule) and be removed from the roadside as soon as possible after collection. Bin wastes must not be allowed to flow into the street, other properties or stormwater drains.

Waste management tips

• Choose bins large enough to hold all of your rubbish.
• Keep your bins clean and in good condition by making sure they have secure fitting lids and that both the lid and bin are not split or broken. If so, replace the bin.
• Deodorise the bin as required to reduce the odour.
• Make sure your bin has a lid that fits. This will stop mice, flies and cockroaches being attracted to the bin and transferring dirt and diseases from the bin to clean benches or crockery in your kitchen. 
• Store outdoor bins on a paved area that can be easily cleaned. The area should be graded towards a sewer outlet to enable liquids which leak out of bins to be collected properly. Do not allow discharge to stormwater outlets, as this can attract an on the spot fine.
• Don’t let your rubbish sit rotting. Waste should be removed at least once a week, or more frequently if required, through a waste contractor.
• Organic materials should be wrapped or bagged to prevent nuisance and odour problems occurring. Store smelly items such as seafood in bags in the freezer until your rubbish is collected.

Help cut your waste costs

Much of the rubbish you produce can be recycled. Council can provide you with a list of recycling companies in your area and can also assist with ideas on how to reduce waste.