East Fremantle Council Approves Two-Year Trial for On-Demand Verge Valet Service
The Town of East Fremantle is set to introduce a new on-demand verge valet collection service, commencing a two-year trial from July 1, 2026. This initiative replaces the previous system of three scheduled bulk waste collections each financial year, aiming to enhance service flexibility and address rising operational challenges.
Addressing Community Concerns and Contractor Issues
Mayor Tony Natale highlighted that the current scheduled collection model has become unsustainable due to limited contractor availability, leading to increased costs and reduced date flexibility. "Our current approach is no longer considered fit for purpose," Natale stated. "Trialling an on-demand, bulk waste service better reflects the evolving needs of our community and strengthens our commitment to sustainable waste management."
The council unanimously backed the trial at its March 17 meeting, with Councillor Cliff Collinson noting environmental benefits. "We know the bulk rubbish pick-up messes up the whole street. A whole lot of stuff gets put out there that probably shouldn't be," Collinson said, acknowledging potential initial backlash but expressing confidence in the system's long-term effectiveness.
Service Details and Financial Implications
Under the new model, residents will be able to book:
- Two green waste collections per financial year
- One white and metal goods collection per financial year
This on-demand approach allows residents to choose collection dates that suit their schedules, aligning with practices adopted by other Perth councils such as Canning, Melville, Vincent, Cottesloe, and Stirling.
Financially, the current scheduled service costs approximately $180,000 annually. Data from comparable local governments estimates the new on-demand model will cost about $185,300 for the 2026-27 financial year, operating on a per-collection basis dependent on uptake. Despite the slight cost increase, the council predicts better value for money through improved service flexibility and equitability.
Trial Period and Additional Waste Services
The trial will run from July 1, 2026, until June 30, 2028, providing the town with data on usage patterns, costs, and operational impacts to inform a long-term strategy. Councillor Stephanie Boyd supported the trial on the condition of its two-year duration, expressing curiosity about potential emissions impacts from multiple ad-hoc trips versus concentrated collections.
Residents will continue to receive one annual tip pass to the Henderson Waste Recovery Park in Cockburn, and access to the Fremantle Recycling Centre will remain available. Bulk waste collections will continue under the current model until the end of this financial year, with bookings for the new on-demand service opening from Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
This move positions East Fremantle alongside other forward-thinking Perth councils in modernising waste management practices while responding directly to community feedback and operational realities.
