More than $10 million has been allocated to extend the Household Hazardous Waste Program (HHW Program) under a new five-year funding arrangement with the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA).
The HHW Program provides funding to assist with the storage, transport, treatment, and recovery of HHW collected by local governments and regional councils.
The funding represents a 14 per cent increase on the nine-million-dollar commitment under the current five-year phase of the program, which ends this year.
The program will support a network of 16 permanent sites where householders can drop off hazardous items including unwanted household chemicals, gas cylinders and batteries at no charge.
Elizabeth Carr AM, Waste Authority Chair, said the new funding reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to environmental protection.
“It will also provide certainty to our stakeholders including WALGA and local government,” Carr said.
“The continuation of the HHW Program is expected to support efficiencies by allowing WALGA to offer long-term contracts for collection and treatment of HHW from collection points.”
Councillor Karen Chappel AM, WALGA President, welcomed the funding announcement stating the safe handling and management of household hazardous waste is a significant issue for local governments.
A retendering process for contractors will begin shortly.
Household hazardous waste refers to the products used in and around the home that are flammable, toxic, explosive, or corrosive. If not disposed of correctly, HHW can pose a threat to human health and the environment.
The HHW Program is delivered by the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) on behalf of the Waste Authority.
For more information, visit: www.wasteauthority.wa.gov.au
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