I believe in NSW Australia local councils provides clean-up services only every 3 months where you can dispose of unwanted whitegoods, TVs, garden waste etc. The cost of this services is incorporated into annual council rates. In other words only home owners pay the fees not people who are renting. Rents incorporate water costs & land/council rates so everyone uses the service. Even if you don’t use the service you will pay a premium. Most people, however do use the service. Generally what happens, the council sends out a flyer to all households at the beginning of the year informing them the week numbers of the cleanups during the year. Everyone puts out their rubbish, if they have a lot they put it out a week earlier. Second-hand dealers & people looking for treasures generally takes anything worthwhile before the council gets the chance to PU the goods. You can be fined if you put out your rubbish early but in general most people work within the guidelines. The council also provides places where you can drop off 2nd hand furniture in good condition & another place for whitegoods etc. If you use this service you can expect to pay a price. The Salvo’s also have a place where you can drop off 2nd hand goods in good condition, this is known as ‘Tempe tip’ They sell goods to 2nd hand dealers, sell direct to the public & also distribute to their shops in all area.
However I understand that unlike the UK, in Australia most retail stores don't offer to dispose of your old Fridge, W/Machine, TV etc for free. This is a new concept, I think Harvey Norman are leading the way but I don't know the exact conditions.
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