With a growing understanding of the environmental impact of disposable products on landfills, many councils across the country are taking steps to promote the use of reusable items by introducing rebate programs. These programs vary from one council to another, but most are providing rebates for the purchase of high-use reusable products like Cloth Nappies, Swim Nappies, Wet Bags, Training Pants, and Menstrual products. The overarching goal is to significantly reduce the volume of disposable products ending up in landfills.
In Townsville alone, a staggering 2,700 tonnes of disposable nappies and sanitary products are sent to landfills annually, which is equivalent to the weight of 14 million disposable nappies or more than two cargo ships or six Boeing 747s.
Below is a list of Australian local councils currently offering rebates for the purchase of reusable baby and menstrual products. Please note that this list may not be exhaustive, and it's advisable to directly contact your local council if they not included in this list.
QUEENSLAND
Townsville City Council
NEW SOUTH WALES
Wagga Wagga City Council
VICTORIA
City of Casey
Whittlesea Council
Wyndham
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
NORTHERN TERRITORY
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
City of Cockburn
Town of Victoria Park
City of Fremantle
City of Belmont
City of Melville
Town of East Fremantle
Town of Basseldean
Shire of Augusta Margaret River
City of Armadale
TASMANIA