Collecting food organics and garden organics (FOGO) has changed the way the Borough manages waste that would have previously gone to landfill and turning them into useful compost.
Kerbside data from 2024–25 shows food and garden waste collections have grown from 65.5 tonnes per year in 2014–15 to over 1,000 tonnes per year. At the same time, the amount of rubbish going to landfill has dropped by more than half, from 1,302 tonnes to 573.5 tonnes. This shows that FOGO is working as intended, keeping materials out of landfill and turning food and garden waste into useful compost.
Queenscliffe is performing strongly alongside other councils across Victoria, with a kerbside waste diversion rate of 71.6%, which is considered high-performing. FOGO is now the largest part of the Borough's kerbside waste system, with strong participation from both residents and visitors throughout the year.
Just as important as how much is collected is how well it is sorted. The Borough's FOGO contamination rate is below 2%, which is line with the national average. This means most people are using their bins correctly, allowing the material to be turned into high-quality compost and avoiding extra processing costs.
By sending less waste to landfill, the Borough is reducing methane emissions and contributing to climate action. It also helps Council meet state and national targets for recycling and landfill reduction.
Together, these results show that FOGO is making a real difference, helping our community turn everyday waste into a valuable resource while protecting the environment and building a more sustainable future for the Borough.
If you would like to know more information about what can, and cannot be collected in your FOGO bin, head here.
