We’re joining councils across the state by rolling out a Food and Garden Organics (FOGO) bin to all households in Stonnington. Currently, almost 50% of the average household rubbish bin comprises food and garden waste, which produces harmful greenhouse gases when sent to landfill. By collecting this organic waste separately, it can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost for use in agriculture and landscaping.
The roll out is also part of the Victorian Government’s transition to a consistent household waste and recycling system under the Recycling Victoria Policy and the Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021 across all households in Victoria.
What's happening?
Properties receiving a Council bin service that do not have a FOGO bin will receive a 120L or 240L bin.
Only properties that receive a Council waste service are eligible for a FOGO bin. If your property is serviced by a private collector, please contact your owners' corporation.
The rollout
The rollout will take place in two stages.
Stage one - standalone properties
In November 2025, green-lidded 120L FOGO bins and caddies were delivered across Stonnington to eligible standalone properties that do not currently have a FOGO bin, including houses and some townhouses.
If you believe that you should have been part of the rollout and have not received a FOGO bin, please email FOGO@stonnington.vic.gov.au
If you already have a FOGO bin, you don't need to do anything. Continue using your bin as usual.
Stage two - apartments and units
The timing of the second stage rollout will be announced in 2026.
We know that residents in apartments and unit blocks face additional challenges to recycle organics. That’s why we're undertaking the FOGO in Multi-Unit Dwellings (MUDs) trial to help shape a smooth and successful rollout. The feedback and learnings from the trial will be used to inform the FOGO roll out to remaining properties with shared spaces.
Currently, apartment blocks with City of Stonnington waste services can request food and green waste bins as part of an opt-in service. An owners' corporation representative will need to fill out the request form. For more information, visit the Food and Green Waste page.
Cost
After your FOGO bin is delivered, you will receive a pro-rata rates notice. This year’s charge for a 120 L FOGO bin is $90. The waste charges are determined every year as part of Council’s annual budget.
Opting out
Some households may opt-out of this FOGO bin rollout. If your opt-out application is successful and you have already received a FOGO bin, arrangements will be made to remove the bin as soon as possible.
Find out if you meet the opt-out criteria and apply
If you are a renter, please contact your landlord or real estate agent to complete the FOGO bin opt-out form. If you are unable to get in contact, please email us FOGO@stonnington.vic.gov.au
FOGO bin collection information
There will be no changes to the current bin collection frequencies. FOGO and recycling bins will continue to be collected fortnightly, and garbage bins weekly. You can find your collection days at Find my bin days.
Once you have your new FOGO bin, you can start saving your scraps straight away by using your kitchen caddy. You can line your caddy with newspaper or collect a free roll of compostable lime green liners from one of our customer service centres. Read more about food and green waste.