Over the past few months, Kiama Council has been reviewing how we deliver some of our core services, including waste collection.

Good councils don’t stand still. As our community grows and changes, so should the way we deliver services.

That means regularly asking: is this still working the way it should?

From July 2026, yellow-lid recycling bins will move from weekly to fortnightly collection.

Importantly, nothing changes until then. There is plenty of notice. And we will provide clear reminders and updated collection information well ahead of time.

Why the change?

Quite simply:

• Most yellow recycling bins are only about half full when they’re put out. It’s a waste of time and money to collect half-empty bins
• One third of households don’t put their yellow bins out every week at all.
• It’s been a decade since we updated the driver routes and collection days. We have grown, and the service needs review.
• We’re always seeking more efficient and sustainable ways to operate.

It’s worth remembering that Kiama doesn’t process waste locally. All recycling and general waste is transported outside our area, mostly to Sydney.

I do want everyone to know our local waste team remains and continues to do a terrific job every day.

Fortnightly recycling is already standard practice across many neighbouring councils, and Kiama residents are already familiar with fortnightly general waste (red bin) collections.

Change isn’t easy. Now you know why we are changing, we will keep talking to you, keep you up to date, and remind you.

We will continue sharing information over the coming months so everyone feels prepared and ready for this change.

For more details, visit kiama.nsw.gov.au/waste-2026.

On a different note, I want to acknowledge the Kiama Rugby Sevens, which occurred last weekend, celebrating its 54th year.

Council is proud to support this iconic local event, which brings energy, visitors and community spirit to our town.

I hope you managed to be part of the action.

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