The suburbs that could be fined $2,500 for leaving their bins out

This is how much you could be fined for leaving your bin out too long

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A new proposal could see some Queensland residents fined if caught leaving their garbage bins out after they’ve been emptied.

Councils of Mackay, Townsville, Rockhampton, Burdekin, Bundaberg, Gladstone and the Gold Coast will all implement the proposed law as of June 1, which would allow councils to fine residents $2523 for not collecting their wheelie bin within 24 hours.

The previous law allowed councils to fine residents the same amount, however, the period of time stated, “reasonably appropriate before and after collection”.

Many councils have reportedly responded to the backlash saying they have no intentions of enforcing the law unless a neighbour complains.

Speaking to the Daily Mercury, Mackay Regional Mayor Greg Williamson said they wouldn’t be enforcing the law.

However, Mackay Regional Mayor Greg Williamson the Daily Mercury, "In the case where someone complains that there is a landowner or occupier of a dwelling not doing the right thing by the environment, and people that live in that area, we need this local law or otherwise it is a free-for-all."

Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey also said: "Bundaberg has no intention of any changes in relation to our current policy."

Livia Gamble

Based in Sydney, Livia Gamble will not sleep until she has discovered every possible way to use bi-carb soda and vinegar. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found knitting socks (by choice) and will never say no to pizza.

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