Speaking up is not a waste of time – FOGO pilot commences with carers in mind

A Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection pilot is currently servicing four suburbs in the ACT. This pilot program will eventually be rolled out across Canberra. FOGO collection occurs weekly and regular waste collection reduces to once per fortnight.

The impact on carers was observed to be a topic on social media conversations as the ACT Government simultaneously reached out for our views. We asked carers what they think and a number of got in touch to talk us through their issues, including those who were not yet impacted but were anticipating the difficulties this would pose. Concerns about reduced bin collection not being enough for the amount of waste, odour, weight of bins, cost of extra bins and dignity were all issues raised.

The ACT Government in its generosity worked with us to explore the issues, the options and the solutions over a number of meetings and an open dialogue. We also made sure that the survey to current residents in the pilot program allowed questions that would better describe and back up these concerns.

The result of this effective consultation is that we now have a system in place where carers can discreetly apply privately to request a free upgrade to a larger bin size if there is a medical need. For those who have already paid for a bigger or second bin, they can ask for a refund.

For more information, click here.

As always the Policy and Advocacy team which includes MHCV, welcomes any questions or comments on these topics or others. Carer.advocacy@carersact.org.au