After nearly a decade, Townsville City Council is bringing back tip vouchers – putting choice and cost-of-living relief back in the hands of residents.
Mayor Nick Dametto announced the measure as part of Council’s $82 million spend on resource recovery in the 2026/27 Budget and Operational Plan at today’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
Mayor Dametto said from August every eligible property in Townsville would be able to choose the option that best suits their household – either a kerbside collection or two tip vouchers at no charge.
“We’ve heard loud and clear that people want tip vouchers back and we’re delivering that as part of our back to basics focus.” Cr Dametto said.
“This is about giving residents real choice. Whether it’s the convenience of a kerbside collection or taking waste to the tip themselves, households can decide what works best for them.
“It’s a practical, common-sense initiative that helps reduce household costs, while keeping our city clean.”
Councillor Dametto said the program would improve access to waste services across the city, while continuing to support responsible waste management.
“We want to make it easier for residents to dispose of bulky waste properly, reduce illegal dumping and ensure materials end up in the right place,” he said.
“This strikes the right balance – meeting community expectations while managing costs responsibly.”
With the finer details of the contract with the provider currently being finalised, the new program will go live online from 3 August 2026, aligning with the distribution of rates notices.
Councillor Dametto said the system had been designed to be simple and accessible for both homeowners and renters.
“The process is straightforward – jump online, enter your address and choose your preferred option,” he said.
“If residents choose the kerbside option they will receive a 2 cubic metre flexi-skip in the mail and are given a certain amount of time to fill it and leave it on the kerb before it is collected.
“If you select vouchers, they’ll be issued electronically and can be redeemed at our waste facilities with proof of address. It’s modern, efficient and easy to use.
“For those looking for a more traditional way to redeem their vouchers, a phone option will be available.
“If people take the time sorting their load before heading to our waste facilities, they can not only minimise what ends up in landfill – but be classed under a smaller load when it comes to handing over their vouchers.
“While these vouchers will enable our residents to head to the tip at no charge, the message remains the same – sort it and save.
