Victorian waste bills set to rise from July 1 as councils prepare for looming recycling crisis

VICTORIANS will slapped with a rise of up to $50 on their waste bills from July 1 as councils prepare to deal with the looming recycling crisis.

VICTORIANS will be hit with ­increased waste charges of up to $50 a year from July 1, as councils scramble to deal with a looming recycling crisis.

Municipal Association of Victoria chief executive officer Rob Spence has flagged the potential new cost as a “no-brainer” with councils “unlikely” to be able to wear the costs.

China recently announced a ban on ­importing recyclable material.

The decision sent shockwaves around councils in Australia as they renegotiate garbage contracts with local companies.

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Up to 72 Victorian councils are likely to adjust their waste charges to match the increased costs in the new financial year.

Cathy Anderson is confused about what can be recycled. Picture: Tim Carrafa

However, seven metropolitan councils — which do not charge separately for rubbish — will be forced to apply to the Essential Services Commission for a rate cap exemption to claw back the costs.

At present there is a rate rise cap of 2.25 per cent unless a council can prove special circumstances.

Monash council flagged it faced an extra $1.5 million annually in ­recycling costs. It contacted the commission this week to apply for an exemption, claiming costs would rise up to $23 a year per resident.

The other six metropolitan councils must apply for a cap exemption by the end of this month.

Local Government Minister Marlene Kairouz said most Victorian councils had a separate levy for waste services and would adjust them ­accordingly.

Confused residents are questioning what to do with their rubbish amid the drama.

Cathy Anderson, 45, who lives with her partner in West Footscray, administered by Maribyrnong City Council, said it was upsetting to see bins overflowing with recyclables.

“We can all do better to help preserve our planet’s precious resources,’’ she said.

Soft plastics collected for recycling by REDcycle at its Melbourne depot.

Deakin recycling expert Dr Trevor Thornton said people should continue to recycle as normal.

“While this issue is unfolding, householders should keep doing the exact same as they’ve always done. Understand what your council allows in your recycling bin and keep putting it out.”

The Andrews Government unveiled a $13 million emergency assistance package last month to help councils in the interim. But come the new financial year local councils will have to absorb the increased costs.

Recycling companies have begun to negotiate new contracts with councils across the state.

The true impact will not be known until many deals expire several months down the track.

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