As we welcome 2026, many Wollongong residents are taking the opportunity to declutter, reorganise, and reset their homes for the year ahead. If you’re clearing out cupboards, sorting old belongings, or finally tackling that spare room, we’re here to help you do it responsibly and sustainably.

A new year clean-up doesn’t have to mean extra landfill waste. Wollongong has plenty of services, drop-off points, and recycling options to make your New Year clean-out simple — and better for the environment.

Household Cleanup Collection

Household Cleanup Collections make it easy to dispose of large household items responsibly! Wollongong City Council residents can book up to 2x free 2m³ Household Cleanup Collection per financial year.  To book visit the Wollongong Waste Website, use the Wollongong Waste App OR call 1300 362 260.

How you should sort your waste

How you should place your items on the kerbside

• Once booked, place items out by 6:00 a.m. on your scheduled collection day, but no more than 24 hours before. Note: If illegal dumping occurs at your property due to early presentation of cleanup material, you will be responsible for the removal of all materials.
• Small Items to be placed in unwanted boxes or bags (left open for visual inspection by Remondis Harbour Cities Collection Team).
• Place items out the front of your own property at your normal collection point for your bins. Items must be placed on the kerbside and remain off private property to be eligible for collection.
• Place all items neatly, off the road and footpaths.

Alternatives to Landfill

✔ Community Recycling Centre (CRC) – Kembla Grange

A great spot to drop off problem waste such as:

• E-waste
• Scrap metal
• Batteries
• Paints and oils
• Gas bottles
• Cardboard and other recyclables

✔ FOGO for Food Scraps

If your household is cleaning out the fridge after the holidays, remember: all food waste belongs in your FOGO bin.

✔ Yellow-Lid Recycling Bin

For cardboard boxes, paper, cans, glass bottles and rigid plastics.
Tip: Flatten boxes to save space.

✔ Soft Plastics

Check local drop-off points for clean, dry soft plastic recycling options.

✔ Charity Shops & Reuse Centres

Donate items that are still in good condition: clothes, books, toys, small appliances, and household goods.

Make Sorting Easy with the Wollongong Waste App

If you’re unsure where something belongs, the Wollongong Waste App can help you sort items correctly in seconds.
Use it to:

• Identify what goes in each bin
• Check collection days
• Learn how to reduce waste year-round

A simple tool to support better habits in 2026.

Visit the Wollongong Waste Website for More Tips

The website offers clear guides on recycling, FOGO, , and responsible disposal.
You’ll also find:

• Waste education resources
• A-Z recycling directory

It’s a great starting point for planning a cleaner, more sustainable year.

Small Changes Add Up

Decluttering your home doesn’t have to create unnecessary waste.

Let’s make this year our cleanest and most sustainable yet.