Waste voucher access
Cleaning out the garage, prepping for a move, or just doing a seasonal declutter? Most local councils in the Hunter and Lake Macquarie regions provide residents with waste entitlements to help manage bulky items and household rubbish. This guide outlines exactly how you can claim your vouchers and access local waste management facilities.
Maitland City Council
Maitland residents are eligible for bulky waste services which can be swapped for a tip voucher if you prefer to haul the waste yourself.
- How to claim: request a digital voucher via the Maitland Council website or call 02 4934 9700.
- Facility: Maitland Resource Recovery Facility.
- Delivery: a digital code is sent to your mobile or email address.
Cessnock City Council
Cessnock has moved to a digital-first system. Vouchers are issued twice a year (January and July) and are valid for a specific period.
- How to claim: download the Cessnock Waste App. You will need your property assessment number to log in.
- Facility: Cessnock Waste Management Centre.
- Tip for tenants: if you do not have your assessment number, please contact Rubix Realty for assistance.
Download the Cessnock Waste App (App Store / Google Play).
Newcastle City Council
Residents can request two bulk waste services per rolling 12-month period, which can be used for kerbside pick-up or as self-haul vouchers for the Summerhill Waste Management Centre.
- How to claim: visit the Newcastle City Council website or call 02 4974 2000.
- Facility: Summerhill Waste Management Centre.
- Delivery: digital vouchers are usually emailed within 7 business days.
Lake Macquarie City Council
Lake Mac offers a "bookable" service. You can choose between a kerbside collection or a drop-off voucher for the Awaba facility.
- How to claim: book online through the Lake Mac website or call 02 4921 0333.
- Facility: Awaba Waste Management Facility.
- Delivery: digital vouchers are emailed instantly upon successful booking.
Important visit requirements
- Proof of identity: you must present a valid driver's licence or rates notice matching the address on the voucher.
- Safe footwear: fully enclosed shoes are mandatory at all facilities. You will be refused entry if wearing thongs or sandals.
- Sort your load: separate metals, mattresses and green waste to ensure a faster process and to maximise your voucher value.
Moving out? Use the moving property cleaning checklist (PDF) and read tenant FAQs: vacating the property.
Whatever stage you're at, start with a conversation.
No hard sell. Just a chat about your property, your plans and what makes sense from here.