Food and garden organics

Any item not accepted by the service placed in your FOGO bin is a contaminant. Contaminants need to be removed from FOGO waste by hand prior to processing of the waste into compost and soil conditioner.

When materials are highly contaminated, they are sent directly to landfill, which reduces the recovery of food scraps and gardens organics.

The kitchen caddy’s ventilated lid reduces odours by allowing moisture to escape, helping contents stay drier and fresher.  The lid's small perforations are designed to prevent vinegar flies from getting in or out. 
To keep your caddy & green bin smelling fresh:

• Store out of direct sunlight
• Empty the caddy every few days
• Always close the lid tightly
• Layer food scraps with garden waste in the green bin

The caddy is dishwasher safe or can be cleaned with warm, soapy water.

The liners are designed to last long enough for normal use. We recommend storing the roll of liners in a cool dry place and changing caddy liners every 2 to 3 days. 

Additional rolls of 150 compostable liners will be available to all residents at the start of each financial year. A free top-up supply of 50 liners will be available free of charge from September at all Maitland libraries & the Maitland Administration Centre.

Compostable liners are thinner than regular plastic bags because they break down during composting. To prevent tearing:

• Change liners every 2 - 3 days, or more often if disposing of wet or heavy food scraps.
• Carry the entire caddy with the liner inside to your green bin, rather than lifting the liner alone.
• Drain excess liquids, such as leftover soups or sauces, before placing food scraps into the liner.

Each eligible household will receive one caddy as part of the service launch. If your caddy is lost or damaged, you’re welcome to use another suitable container in your kitchen or purchase a replacement caddy from Council at a cost of $15.

Caddies will only be provided free of charge for newly established waste services (e.g. new builds). An exception may apply if you move into an existing home between the caddy delivery period and the official service start date on 30 June - please contact us if this applies to you.

Yes, if you have an additional organics bin that you no longer require, you can reduce them by submitting a request to Council.

Please note: all households must have at least one green organics bin. 

The introduction of the FOGO service will result in a $37 increase to the 25/26 Domestic Waste Management Charge, in accordance with Council’s draft fees and charges, which are currently on public exhibition.

Participation is optional, however it is strongly encouraged to help reduce landfill waste, cuts emissions and benefits local farmers.