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Waste Management and Recycling
Learn more about our waste management and recycling services
Service Overview
We provide essential waste management and recycling services to maintain clean, healthy and sustainable island communities.
- Total number of bins serviced
-
1400
- Estimated annual tonnage of domestic waste collected
- 2000 +
- Waste management facilities
-
15
Waste Collection, Disposal and Recycling
Our waste management services provide reliable and eco-friendly solutions for efficient waste collection, disposal, and recycling. Committed to sustainability, we strive to make waste management simple and effective for every home and community.
Key Initiatives
Kerbside collection
General waste is collected from households on designated days. While recyclables are not collected at the kerbside, the Containers for Change program and other recycling options are available at various community locations.
Schedule for collections
Find your community’s waste collection at your local council office.
Replacing bins
Need a new or replacement bin? Whether your bin is damaged or missing, submit a request to receive a new one through our local council offices.
Report illegal dumping
Illegal dumping harms our environment and puts our communities at risk. If you’ve witnessed illegal dumping or need to report it, this page will guide you through the process of making a report. Learn more about the consequences of illegal dumping and how to dispose of waste properly.
- Commercial and construction waste
Commercial and construction waste cannot be dumped in council landfills. Find out more about the regulations and how to responsibly dispose of these materials here.
- Community members
Ensure you're following the guidelines for disposing of household waste and bulky items.
What can go in the bins?
Not sure what goes in your general waste or recycling bin? Although we do not offer a kerbside recycling service, general waste should go into your household bins. Items that can be recycled, such as eligible drink containers, batteries, and printer ink cartridges, can be taken to designated collection points across the region. Follow our guidelines to avoid contamination and dispose of waste responsibly.
Waste and recycling facilities
We operate waste management facilities across the region, offering lead acid battery recycling and waste oil recycling at our depots. In addition, domestic and office batteries, as well as printer ink cartridges, can be recycled at council offices. Containers for Change collection points are also available in some communities at local schools or churches, where you can return eligible drink containers for refunds.
Sustainable waste management
We are committed to reducing waste and promoting recycling and sustainability in the Torres Strait. Through initiatives such as the Containers for Change program, battery recycling, and waste oil disposal services, we encourage residents to participate in environmentally responsible waste management.
Frequently Asked Questions
General domestic waste should go into your household bins. Batteries should not be placed in your bin. Items such as batteries, eligible drink containers and printer ink cartridges can be recycled and taken to designated collection points across the region. Please contact your local TSIRC office for more information.
Collection days vary by community. You can contact your local TSIRC office for more details.
If your bin was missed, please ensure it was placed out on time and not obstructed. If everything was in order, you can report a missed collection by contacting your local TSIRC office.
You can request a new or replacement bin by contacting your local TSIRC office. Replacement bins may be provided for damaged, lost, or stolen bins.
Recycling is available through several programs in the region. Containers for Change offers collection points at some schools and churches for eligible drink containers. You can recycle lead acid batteries and waste oil at council depots, while domestic batteries and printer ink cartridges can be dropped off at council offices.
Large items like furniture or white goods should be taken to a local waste management facility. Please check the facility's hours and what they accept before dropping off items.
To report illegal dumping, contact TSIRC through our reporting page or call the local council office. Provide as much detail as possible, including the location and type of waste dumped.
No, commercial and construction waste is prohibited from being disposed of at TSIRC landfills. Businesses are required to make arrangements to transport their waste to appropriate facilities.
TSIRC supports sustainability through programs like Containers for Change, lead acid battery recycling, and education on proper waste disposal. We encourage all residents to actively participate in these programs to reduce waste and protect our environment.
Contact Us
All enquiries, please contact us:
Phone: 07 4034 5700
Email: info@tsirc.qld.gov.au
Postal Address: PO Box 7336 Cairns QLD 4870
