Waste levies will be waived to help flood-affected communities in Queensland clean up.
Meaghan Scanlon, Environment Minister said all flood-related waste including damaged goods will be disposed to landfill without incurring the levy.
“We want our affected communities and businesses to get back on their feet as soon as possible, and the waste levy exemption is one of many ways the Palaszczuk Government is providing support,” Scanlon said.
“Households don’t pay the levy. This exemption will help industry and business who ordinarily might pay the levy on their normal business operations. It means they can help to clean up their properties without worrying about the cost.
“We’re working with waste sector representatives to determine their processing capabilities to help manage the clean-up, as some waste industry businesses have also been affected by the recent rain event and flooding.
“That’s on top of the $1 million announced at the weekend for 19 councils to assist with urgent clean-up works.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped their friends, family, neighbours or strangers in other suburbs to clean up their properties.
Waste levy exemptions are in place for flood-related waste at Fraser Coast (Maryborough Disaster District), Gympie, Noosa, Moreton Bay, Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Somerset, Toowoomba and North Burnett.
“After any natural disaster the Queensland Government is always ready to support affected residents, businesses and local councils,” Scanlon said.
“We have made this decision to provide waste levy exemptions because thousands of residents and business owners have been affected either by flooding or the rainfall.
For more information about the areas with a current exemption, visit: www.qld.gov.au/environment/pollution/management/waste/recovery/disposal-levy/about/exemptions-for-disaster-waste
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