FAQs: Proposed changes to user pay charges at Armidale Waste Management Facility

Weight‑based charging means your waste disposal fees are calculated based on the actual weight of your waste, measured using a certified weighbridge, rather than estimates based on volume or vehicle size.

Weight‑based charging:

• Is a fairer and more accurate way of charging for waste
• Ensures customers only pay for the waste they generate
• Aligns with state, federal and international best practice for sustainable waste management
• Supports accurate reporting of waste tonnages to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA)
• Encourages waste reduction and better recycling habits

When you enter the facility:

1. Your vehicle is weighed on entry (gross weight).
2. You unload your waste as directed by staff.
3. Your vehicle is weighed again on exit (tare weight).
4. The difference between the two weights is the weight of waste disposed, and charges are applied accordingly.

Not necessarily.

• Many customers may pay the same or less, especially if loads are well sorted.
• If your waste is heavier (for example, construction or wet waste), charges may be higher.

Sorting waste into different waste streams can help reduce overall disposal costs.

Yes. Fees and charges vary depending on the type of waste, such as:

• General waste
• Green waste
• Recyclables – (recyclables are free)
• Construction and demolition waste
• Special waste streams

Printed copies of the adopted Fees and Charges are available on site, and information will also be available online.

Yes, where possible.

• Sorting your waste before arrival can save both time and money.
• Information and sample images will be available on the website to help you sort correctly.
• Customers may also choose to sort waste on site and weigh different waste types separately to reduce charges.

Yes.

• Mixed loads are accepted, but they are charged at the higher unsorted waste rate.
• Sorting waste into separate loads or waste streams may lower your total cost.

Most waste will be charged by weight; however:

• Some items will continue to be charged per unit, such as tyres.
• Staff will let you know if a unit‑based charge applies as per Council’s adopted Fees and Charges. 

At facilities without a weighbridge, volume‑based charging will still apply.

• Charging methods depend on the infrastructure available at each site.

If you have any questions:

• Speak with staff on site, they can explain how the charges were calculated.
• All weighing is done using certified equipment to ensure accuracy and fairness.

Weight‑based charging:

• Encourages waste reduction and recycling
• Supports better tracking of waste going to landfill
• Helps council meet regulatory and reporting requirements
• Promotes a user/polluter pays approach that supports long‑term sustainability

Our staff will be able to help you with:

• Information about waste management and recycling practices
• Instructions for using the facility including waste separation and disposal points
• Ensuring your safety on site and alerting you of safety protocols  
• Ensuring safe traffic flow and site operations

Please treat our staff with respect so that they can best assist you.