Bega Valley Shire Council has adopted its new long-term waste strategy following extensive community engagement throughout 2023 and 2024.
Waste Strategy Coordinator, Tim Cook said the Waste Strategy 2025–2035: Resources Not Waste reflects the community's vision for how the shire manages waste and recycling over the next decade.
"This strategy has been shaped by community feedback and I sincerely thank everyone who contributed ideas, completed surveys, attended workshops and participated in the public exhibition and community engagement process," Mr Cook said.
"The community's voice was clear—people want a more sustainable and forward-thinking approach to waste.
"This strategy is about making the most of our resources, protecting our environment and supporting long-term economic and environmental outcomes."
The strategy was placed on public exhibition for 28 days in January and February 2025. Feedback received during this period aligned with the earlier engagement outcomes and was summarised in a Listening Report presented to Council.
Mr Cook said that while the strategy sets the broad direction, community involvement won't stop here.
"Each project or initiative that comes out of the strategy will involve further community input as it's funded and rolled out," he said.
"Council is committed to keeping our community informed and involved every step of the way."
The strategy aligns with state and national frameworks and supports Council's Climate Resilience Strategy 2050. It also provides a clear link to Council's long-term financial planning, helping ensure that future waste and recycling services are sustainable and cost-effective.
The Waste Strategy 2025–2035: Resources Not Waste is available online at: begavalley.nsw.gov.au/services/waste-strategy
