Waste levy lifted in fire impacted Cessnock area
The NSW Government has waived the waste levy for residents disposing of bushfire generated waste in the Cessnock Local Government Area. Homes and businesses were damaged by fires last week.
To help the local community dispose of fire generated waste quickly and safely, residents will not be charged the waste levy when they take materials to the Cessnock Waste Management Centre. The local landfill gate fee may still apply.
Damaged building materials, furniture, gardening debris and any other fire generated waste is included, and the exemption will apply to waste on public and private land, through to 31 March 2024.
Community members need to be aware of their surroundings and use proper protective equipment when dealing with fire generated waste. Even after the flames have been extinguished, sites can remain hazardous with unsteady structures, sharp objects or asbestos in debris.
Residents needing support or advice on contaminated waste should contact the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) on 131 555.
Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Penny Sharpe:
“After emergencies like bushfires, residents often face a painful clean-up process and it is important they know they have support in place.
“We hope this simplifies the waste disposal process and can provide a little relief for those recovering from the fire.”
Quote attributable to Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr:
“The NSW Government is listening to residents in the bushfire zone who’ve told us removing the waste levy will help them with the difficult clean up.
“Bushfire season is incredibly difficult, but assistance is available to ease the burden and I encourage residents to use that support."