Green waste service moves closer

Published on 01 May 2025

A Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside collection service in Glenelg Shire is a step closer to reality after it was included in the draft 2025-2026 budget.

The FOGO service emerged as a key election issue and was a hot topic during the budget and Council Plan consultation sessions in February.

This feedback showed that waste management was one of the most important service areas for residents.

Should the FOGO service be adopted in the final budget, a fortnightly green waste collection service, using a 240-litre bin (the same size as the yellow recycling bin) would begin in April 2026.

As with all kerbside collection services, it will be funded through the annual waste service charge. This is intended to be full cost recovery through the annual waste charge so those provided with this service will see an increase in the waste charge. It has been the case in previous years that not all eligible charges were being recovered, meaning that Council has delivered a subsidised service in which all ratepayers (including those not receiving the service) have covered these costs.

The current annual Waste Service Charge is $316 and will increase to $498.55 if Council resolves to proceed with FOGO in the final budget.

Before FOGO can be adopted, the draft budget is out for community feedback.

Mayor Karen Stephens encouraged all residents and ratepayers to have their say.

“The FOGO service was something we have heard a lot about from the community,” she said.

“I encourage everyone to provide us with feedback on FOGO so that we can make an informed decision in line with community expectations.”

To provide feedback on the FOGO service or the rest of the draft 2025-26 budget and draft fees and charges, please visit the Your Say Glenelg website from Thursday, 1 May, email enquiry@glenelg.vic.gov.au or post to The Chief Executive Officer, Glenelg Shire Council, PO Box 152, Portland VIC 3305.

Alternatively hard copies of feedback can be dropped off at Council’s Customer Service Centres in Portland, Heywood or Casterton.

Feedback must be received by 5pm Friday, 23 May. This feedback will then be considered at Council’s June meeting prior to the adoption of the budget and fees and charges.