Why a tipping voucher system?
The tipping voucher system was introduced by council as a way to help residents keep their properties clean and tidy. A departmental review of the previous system found it was inflexible for residents and costly for council to administer.
Am I eligible for tipping vouchers?
Owners of residential property in Townsville who pay a waste services charge as part of their property rates are eligible. Vouchers will be distributed with the two property rates notices each year (three vouchers per notice, a total of six per year).
- Landlords are encouraged to pass vouchers onto their tenants.
- Commercial customers cannot use the vouchers, and will continue to pay the relevant charges.
What will my vouchers entitle me to?
You will be able to dispose of domestic waste (including green waste) free of charge at any of the city's waste facilities. Each voucher is equal to a car boot or a utility tray or a small trailer or four wheelie bins (or part thereof).
A total of six vouchers will be issued each year.
Are there types of waste I can't use my vouchers for?
Vouchers cannot be used for some types of waste, including tyres, car bodies, asbestos and other regulated or 'special waste'. These items will continue to incur a cost for disposal.
Where can I use my vouchers?
The vouchers can be presented during opening hours of any of Townsville's waste disposal facilities:
- Stuart Landfill
- Jensen Landfill and Transfer Station
- Hervey Range Landfill and Transfer Station
- Bluewater Transfer Station
- Toomulla Transfer Station
- Magnetic Island Landfill
How do I use my vouchers for tipping?
Present your voucher at the gatehouse where an officer will assess your load and tell you how many vouchers are required.
Can I use more than one voucher at a time?
Yes. See below for the number of vouchers required for various sized loads.
| One voucher |
Car boot, station wagon, utility, small trailer, up to four wheelie bins. |
| Two vouchers |
Van, long trailer, long utility, station wagon and trailer, utility and trailer. |
| Three vouchers |
Van and trailer, long utility and trailer. |
Signs are also provided at each waste facility. The gatehouse officer will confirm how many vouchers are required.
Please note: There is no change given for part loads.
What if I don't have enough vouchers for my load?
Vouchers can be used as part payment, and you can pay the remainder at the gatehouse.
How long are the vouchers valid for?
Vouchers operate on an annual cycle, ending on 30 September each year. Check your voucher for its expiry date.
I've just moved into my new home, must I wait for my rates notice to get my vouchers?
Yes. Vouchers will be issued twice a year with property rates notices.
I've lost my vouchers, can I get them replaced?
No. Unfortunately, lost vouchers cannot be replaced.
Can I cash in any unused vouchers?
No. Because vouchers do not have an inherent 'cash value', they cannot be redeemed or used as a form of payment for other council services.
For more information, please phone the Customer Service Centre on 1300 878 001 or send an email to Townsville Waste.