Where to recycle
There are lots of common things that you can recycle, but not all of them go in the recycling bin.
If you know what is recyclable and where to recycle it, you'll know that your recycling is ending up in the right place.
Recycling incorrectly can mean that your recycling ends up in landfill. If you can, help other people to learn how to recycle correctly and you'll know that you're helping to prevent their waste from going to landfill too!
Kerbside recycling
Over 90 per cent of Australians have kerbside recycling available, but each area in Australia may offer different services.
Usually OK for the recycling bin
Depending on your local council, you might be able to recycle a lot of your household waste. Some of the commonly accepted recyclables are:
- glass jars and bottles
- aluminium and steel cans
- paper and cardboard
- most hard plastic bottles and containers (look for the identification number in the recycling symbol and ask your council which numbers are accepted for recycling in your area)
Usually not OK
There are things that you usually can't recycle in your recycling bin. If your recycling bin has things in it that shouldn't be there, this could contaminate the load and it all might have to go into landfill.
Some things you may not be able to put in your recycling bin include:
- Broken crockery and some types of broken glass.
- Drinking glasses, reading glasses and mirrors - check to see if your local charity shop can resell these items.
- Plastic bags - see if your supermarket has a plastic bag recycling service.
Recycling other items
Depending on where you live, there might be a lot of other items that you can recycle. Talk to your council to find out what is recyclable.
Your local rubbish tip (landfill) might have a recycling centre attached for reusable items like bikes, building materials, light shades, garden ornaments, books, lawn mowers and just about anything else. There might also be an area to drop off garden clippings, batteries, paint tins and hazardous wastes.
See Recycling Near You to find out what is recyclable in your area. You might find that there is a range of things you can recycle in your area at locations like:
- Charity and op-shops
- Drop-off recycling facilities for recycling more unusual products
- Other waste and recycling services
More information
For more information on what you can recycle and how, talk to your local council.
Why do it?
- Help keep reusable materials, metals and objects out of landfill
- Show others how they can reduce their waste as well
- Encourage the growth of businesses who use and sell recycled goods
Did you know?
Engine oil never wears out, it just gets dirty. When you recycle your engine oil it can be cleaned and used again. Check with your local council where you can recycle your used oil.
Page last modified: 20 Aug 2009