Waste fee changes to support fair services

Cairns Regional Council is updating fees and charges at its transfer stations from 1 July to ensure waste services remain fair, transparent and financially sustainable for the community.

The adjusted fees and charges will apply at Council's transfer stations at Portsmith, Smithfield, Gordonvale and Babinda.

The changes reflect state waste policy settings and regulatory requirements that are reshaping the way waste services are delivered across Queensland.

They also account for increasing costs associated with the State waste levy, the new kerbside collection contract and the residual waste contracts, all of which are contributing to higher costs for managing waste.

The updates will help ensure Council can continue to provide a reliable and equitable waste service for the community.

Council is also focused on helping customers reduce their costs through better preparation and sorting of materials before arriving at transfer stations.

These simple actions by residents and businesses can make a real difference.

The way loads are sorted before arriving can have a direct impact on cost and helps ensure materials are directed into the right recovery streams.

As part of the changes, Council will simplify and update fee structures, improve on-site signage, and provide clearer information to help customers understand charges before they visit.

These improvements are designed to make the system easier to navigate and support better waste separation across all facilities.

The updated fees and charges are consistent with approaches being adopted by local governments across Queensland.

Most updated fees and charges will take effect from 1 July 2026, with changes to commercial mixed waste charges commencing on 15 August 2026.

Further information, including updated fee schedules and transfer station guidance, is available on Council’s website.