What is being done about flood waste?

Published on 28 May 2025

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Council, in partnership with the NSW Government and the Reconstruction Authority, is working hard to collect and safely dispose of thousands of tonnes of flood waste.

Kerbside collections have started in areas impacted by floodwaters. Crews will continue to return to affected zones across the Shire as access improves, helping residents and businesses with clean-up efforts.

To assist with kerbside collection, please follow these important steps:

  • Document the damage: Take photos of flood-affected items and your property’s interior before moving anything. This helps with insurance and disaster assistance claims.
  • Place items at the kerb: For rural properties, items should be placed beside the roadside, or where it can be safely reached with machinery.
  • Sort waste into piles: Where possible, separate waste into categories – whitegoods, green waste, mattresses, and general flood-damaged items.

All flood waste needs to be collected by 18 August 2025. Please note: the Waste Transfer Stations at South West Rocks, Stuarts Point and Bellbrook are not accepting flood waste.

To register for flood waste collection, please follow this link: ksc.pub/flood-waste-form

Floodwaters can carry harmful chemicals, debris, and bacteria. When handling flood waste, wear gloves and protective clothing. If you suspect hazardous materials like asbestos or chemicals are present, contact the EPA on 131 555 for safe disposal advice.

For affected landholders, NSW Local Land Services (LLS) and the Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA) are providing help with livestock disposal. Onsite burial is preferred, and more information is available at lls.nsw.gov.au/floods/flood-recovery-resources. For emergency fodder, animal health advice or vet support, contact AASFA on 1800 814 647.

Council is also exploring the reuse of flood-damaged carpet and floor coverings in local dairies and laneways to protect cattle hooves from waterlogged ground.

Cleanaway are working to catch-up on disrupted regular waste collections. Red, yellow and green bins should be left out until regular collections resume.

For updates on clean-up efforts and recovery services, visit and bookmark the Flood Recovery Information page on Council’s website ksc.pub/disaster-recovery 

Register for flood waste collection here

 

This is a news update from Kempsey Shire Council. The information is correct at the time of publication.
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