Hazardous and regulated waste

Some waste items require special handling and disposal to protect people, animals and the environment. These items must never be placed in household bins. This page explains how to safely manage chemicals, asbestos and agricultural waste, and where to get help.

Chemical disposal

Household and agricultural chemicals must be disposed of safely to prevent harm to people, waterways and wildlife. 

Chemical items include 

  • household and farm chemicals 

  • paint and paint tins 

  • fuels, oils and lubricants 

Disposal advice 

  • keep chemicals in their original containers where possible 

  • never pour chemicals down drains or onto the ground 

  • take chemicals to approved disposal or collection programs 

For advice on how and where to dispose of chemicals, contact Council on (07) 4776 4600. 

 

Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in building products prior to the mid‑1980s and remains present in many older structures. 

Where asbestos may be found 

Asbestos containing materials may include: 

  • roof and wall sheeting 

  • fencing and cladding 

  • eaves and soffits 

  • vinyl flooring backing and underlays 

  • switchboard backing boards 

If your home was built before the mid‑1980s, it may contain asbestos. Homes built up to 2003 may also contain asbestos products. 

Health risks 

Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious health conditions, including: 

  • asbestosis 

  • lung cancer 

  • mesothelioma 

Asbestos is generally safe if it is in good condition and not disturbed. 

Handling and removal rules (non‑workplace areas) 

Strict laws apply to asbestos removal: 

  • Friable asbestos must only be removed by a licensed contractor 

  • Removal of more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos requires approval 

  • Power tools, high‑pressure water or compressed air must not be used 

  • Broken asbestos surfaces must be sealed 

  • All asbestos waste must be double‑wrapped, labelled and disposed of promptly 

  • Asbestos material must not be sold or given away 

Council manages domestic asbestos issues involving less than 10m². Larger removals or workplace matters must be referred to: 

 

Agricultural waste programs

We support safe recycling options for agricultural and farming waste, including the  drumMUSTER program. 

This program provides a safe and approved way to recycle eligible agricultural and veterinary chemical containers. 

Benefits include: 

  • reduced landfill 

  • protection of soil and waterways 

  • safer waste management on farms 

Eligibility and preparation requirements are available at: https://www.agsafe.org.au/dm-program-overview  

Need help or want to report a concern? 

If you need advice or are unsure how to dispose of a hazardous item contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information. 

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