On-demand valet bulk verge collections FAQs
What is changing?
The Town will trial a new on demand bulk verge collection service, known as Verge Valet. The trial period will last for two years starting in the 2026/27 financial year. Under the proposed model, residents would be able to pre-book bulk verge collections when needed, rather than waiting for scheduled collection dates.
Why is the Town considering a change?
The Town has experienced ongoing difficulties securing contractors to deliver the current scheduled bulk verge collection service. In recent years, procurement processes have received limited or no responses, creating uncertainty around:
- whether services can be delivered at all
- when collections will occur; and
- how much they will cost.
At the same time, the Town has received ongoing feedback from residents expressing frustration about the timing, reliability and value of scheduled verge collections, particularly when collections are delayed or dates are changed.
Given these challenges, the range of practicable service delivery options available to the Town is currently limited. The proposed Verge Valet trial is considered the most viable option that can be implemented with sufficient certainty while maintaining access to bulk waste services for residents.
Why hasn't formal community consultation been undertaken yet?
Formal community consultation has not been undertaken at this stage because the review identified very limited viable alternatives to the current service model, due primarily to contractor availability and procurement constraints.
Instead, the recommended approach has been informed by:
• customer service enquiries
• complaints and feedback received over time; and
• operational experience delivering the current service.
The proposed change is a trial, not a permanent decision. The two-year trial period will allow the Town to:
• understand how residents use the service
• assess costs and operational impacts; and
• gauge community acceptance before any long-term decision is made.
How would the verge valet work?
The Verge Valet will allow residents to:
• book a bulk verge collection online or by phone
• choose a collection time that suits them (subject to availability)
• place waste on the verge only shortly before the booked collection.
Collections would be available year-round rather than on fixed dates.
The service includes collection, haulage and disposal of waste, and places limits on volumes per booking to encourage reuse and responsible disposal.
What happens to the Henderson tip passes?
In addition to the valet verge service, residents will continue to receive one tip pass each financial year to the Henderson Waste Recovery Park, for the duration of the trial.
Is the verge valet more expensive than the current service?
Verge Valet is not expected to deliver direct cost savings compared to the current scheduled service once all costs are included. However, it offers better value by:
• reducing the risk that services cannot be delivered,
• allowing residents to book collections when they need them, and
• ensuring the Town only pays for collections that are actually used.
Why can't the Town keep the current system?
The Town has been unable to reliably secure contractors to deliver scheduled verge collections in recent years. Continuing with the current system carries a real risk that collections may be delayed, reduced, or not delivered at all.
Will everyone get the same number of collections?
The Town would determine how many collections are allocated per residence each year. Not all residents use bulk verge services every year, and the on-demand model allows flexibility to better match services to different household needs.
What if I don't use the internet?
Alternative booking options, such as booking by phone, will be provided to ensure the service is accessible to all residents.
Will this lead to more illegal dumping?
The on-demand model is intended to reduce illegal dumping by allowing residents to book collections when they need them, rather than waiting for scheduled dates.
What if residents don't like the new system?
The proposed change is a two-year trial. Community feedback will be monitored throughout the trial, and a formal review will be undertaken before any permanent decision is made.
Will I still be able to access the Fremantle Recycling Centre?
Residents will be able to take one trailer of green waste daily to the Fremantle Recycling Centre, and up to four trailer loads of bulk goods each financial year.
They can also dispose of unlimited amounts of cardboard, polystyrene, batteries, light globes, used oil and other recyclables for free at the Fremantle Recycling Centre.
When would the new service start?
The service would be provided for the 2026/27 financial year. Bookings are expected to open from 1 July 2026, with collections commencing from August 2026.