Everything you need to know about Cook Shire's bin labelling program
From 1 July 2025, only bins that are labelled, compliant and registered will be collected as part of Cook Shire’s kerbside waste service.
This new program is part of our commitment to delivering a waste system that is fair, safe, efficient and cost-effective for the whole community.
What is the bin labelling program?
Council is introducing official labels for compliant household waste bins. These labels help make sure:
- Bins are in good condition and safe to handle
- The waste collection service is being used fairly and by those who pay for it
- Our contractors and environment are protected from hazards and contamination
Formally announced on 23 April 2025, the community has until 30 June 2025 to ensure their bins are compliant and have received their label before the No Label = No Service program comes into effect.
No label = No Service comes into effect:
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What makes a bin eligible?
To be labelled—and collected—your bin must:
- ✅ Be in good repair (no cracks, working wheels, lid closes securely)
- ✅ Be the correct size/type as approved by Council
- ✅ Be itemised on your property’s rates notice and part of your paid waste service
Only bins that meet all three criteria will be labelled and collected.
Why does this matter?
Broken and unregistered bins contribute to a wide range of issues—from contamination and litter to safety hazards for waste contractors. They also increase the cost of waste disposal and create unfairness for those who are paying for the service.
The Bin Labelling Program ensures that only bins in good condition and included in a paid waste service are collected. It’s about creating a fairer, safer, and more efficient waste system for everyone in the community.
Once the current kerbside waste service is running smoothly, Council hopes to explore future improvements—such as the introduction of kerbside recycling. But to make those next steps possible, we must first get the basics right. This program lays the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable system.
What support is available?
Free Repairs & Discounted Replacements
- Free bin repairs during the audit period (12 May–30 June) as part of your regular waste collection service. So make sure your bins are kerbside 6 AM – 6 PM on your normal rubbish collection days.
- Discounted replacement bins available at 25% discount off the regular purchase price until 30 June 2025
- Free disposal of old/damaged bins during Free Dumping Days: 26 April–11 May (during normal WTS operating hours)
Got an extra bin?
If you use an additional bin that isn’t yet listed on your rates notice, complete the relevant Extra Bin Service Form before 12 May to have it assessed and included.
If you require a one-off additional bin collection, please contact Auswaste to organise directly or alternatively bring your bin down to the waste transfer station (fees will apply).
Come and talk trash with us!
Visit our Council stall at the Cooktown Markets on:
📍 Saturday 3 May, 2025, 8 – 11 AM
📍 Saturday 17 May, 2025, 8 – 11 AM
📍 Saturday 31 May,2025, 8 – 11 AM
Ask questions, check bin compliance, and
register to take part in a free bin lock trial.
What happens after 1 July?
From 1 July 2025:
- Non compliant bins, including those that are broken or without a Council label will not be collected and will recieve a “Non-compliance notification” label.
- Bins that are too full, facing the wrong way, or contain prohibited items (like batteries, paint, e-waste) will receive an: “Oops!” reminder label
This gives you a friendly heads-up and guidance on how to fix the issue before your next collection. If the issue isn’t fixed by your next collection, residents may receive an infringement notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bin labelling program?
It’s a new initiative to ensure only bins that are compliant, in good condition, and paid for are being collected as part of Cook Shire’s kerbside waste service.
When does it start?
The program starts in April 2025, with bin audits beginning 12 May 2025. Full enforcement begins 1 July 2025.
Where do I get a label from?
You don’t need to collect or apply the label yourself—Council will take care of that for you. As part of the bin audit happening between 12 May and 30 June 2025, Council staff will inspect your bin, carry out any necessary repairs, and apply the official label if your bin is compliant and registered. Just make sure your bin is out at the kerb on your usual collection day between 6 AM and 6 PM during that period.
What makes a bin eligible for a label?
Your bin must be:
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In good repair (no cracks, working wheels, secure lid)
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The correct size/type
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Itemised on your property’s rates notice as part of your paid waste service
What happens if my bin doesn't meet the requirements?
It won’t be labelled and will not be collected after 1 July.
You’ll receive a Non-Compliance Notice with instructions on how to fix the issue. You have one collection cycle to resolve it before an infringement applies.
What is the "Oops" reminder label?
It’s a reminder label applied when your bin is:
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Overfilled
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Facing the wrong way
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Contains prohibited items (e.g. batteries, paint, e-waste)
This label provides guidance. You’ll get one reminder before you risk an infringement.
How do I know if my bin is what's included on my rates notice?
Check your latest rates notice under the “waste collection” or “bin service” section. Still unsure? Contact Council on 4082 0500.
Can I get a broken bin fixed or replaced?
Yes.
- From 26 April to 11 May, you can dispose of your bin for free and recive a 25% discount when you purchase a new one* before 30 June 2025.
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Free repairs will be carried out on eligible bins as part of the audit from 12 May.
* Please note: Discounted bins will be provided on a first-come-first served basis.
Why does my new bin have a red lid?
Council is gradually phasing out green bin lids and replacing them with red lids on an as-needed basis, such as when bins are damaged or replaced. This change aligns with the Queensland Government’s standard colour-coding system, where red lids are used for general rubbish (waste to landfill).
Introducing this colour-coded system now, helps prepare our community for any future consideration of expanding kerbside collection services, such as:
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Yellow-lid bins for mixed recycling
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Green-lid bins for Food and Garden Organics (FOGO)
By adopting red lids for general waste now, we’re taking a small but important step toward a more consistent, sustainable and easy-to-use kerbside system in the future.
How do I register to have an additional bin service?
Submit an Extra Bin Service Form to Council before 12 May 2025. Once approved and paid for, your bin can be labelled and collected.
Where can I go to ask questions in person?
Visit a Trash Talk stall at the Cooktown Markets on 3, 17 or 31 May to speak with Council staff, check your bin, and register for a bin lock trial.
Who can I contact for help?
📞 Call: 4082 0500
📧 Email: mail@cook.qld.gov.au
🌐 Visit: www.cook.qld.gov.au
What happens if a contractor has broken my bin?
If you believe your bin was damaged during collection, it’s important to report it to Council within 2 working days of your bin being serviced.
Once reported, Council will review the truck’s onboard footage to determine whether the damage was caused during collection. If the contractor is found to be at fault, they will be responsible for repairing or replacing the bin.
Please note: If more than 2 working days have passed, the footage is no longer accessible and no investigation can be undertaken. In this case, the responsibility for repairing or replacing the bin falls to the property owner.
Can I opt our of the kerbside waste collection service if I don't use the services?
Under Queensland State legislation and Cook Shire Council Local Law No. 6 (Waste Management), all properties located within a designated waste collection area are required to be charged for the kerbside waste collection service — even if the service is not actively used.
This legal framework ensures waste is managed in a safe, hygienic, and environmentally responsible way across the Shire, and helps Council deliver sustainable waste services to the community.
If you believe your property may fall outside of a designated service area or you’d like to discuss your specific circumstances, please contact Council on 4082 0500 or email mail@cook.qld.gov.au.