Perth

1. Waste Management and Recycling

Local councils in Perth provide waste collection and recycling services to residents and businesses.

Services Offered:

• General Waste Collection: Weekly or fortnightly collection of household waste.
• Recycling Collection: Fortnightly collection of recyclable materials (paper, plastics, glass, etc.).
• Green Waste Collection: Seasonal or scheduled collection of garden waste.
• Bulk Waste Collection: Periodic collection of large items like furniture or appliances.
• Hazardous Waste Disposal: Drop-off points for items like batteries, chemicals, and e-waste.

Costs:

• Waste management services are typically included in your annual council rates (property taxes).
• Additional fees may apply for extra bins or special collections (e.g., green waste bins may cost around $50–$100 annually).

Procedures:

• Residents are provided with color-coded bins (e.g., red for general waste, yellow for recycling, green for organic waste).
• Check your local council’s website for collection schedules and guidelines on what can and cannot be recycled.

Unique Considerations:

• Perth is committed to sustainability, so councils encourage proper recycling and waste reduction. Fines may apply for contamination of recycling bins.
• Visit the Recycling Near You website or your council’s waste management page for detailed instructions.

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2. Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities

Perth’s local councils maintain parks, playgrounds, sports facilities, and community centers.

Services Offered:

• Public Parks and Playgrounds: Free access to green spaces, BBQ facilities, and picnic areas.
• Sports Facilities: Tennis courts, swimming pools, and sports fields (some require booking and fees).
• Community Centers: Spaces for events, workshops, and classes.
• Libraries: Free access to books, digital resources, and community programs.

Costs:

• Public parks and playgrounds are free to use.
• Sports facility hire fees vary (e.g., tennis court hire may cost $10–$20 per hour).
• Community center room hire starts at around $20–$50 per hour, depending on the size and purpose.

Procedures:

• Visit your local council’s website to book facilities or check availability.
• Library memberships are free for residents; you’ll need proof of address to sign up.

Unique Considerations:

• Perth has a strong outdoor culture, so parks and recreational facilities are well-maintained and widely used.
• Many councils offer free or low-cost fitness classes and events in public spaces.

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3. Building and Development Approvals

If you plan to build, renovate, or develop property in Perth, you’ll need to work with your local council for approvals.

Services Offered:

• Building Permits: Required for new constructions, extensions, or significant renovations.
• Planning Approvals: For developments that may impact zoning or land use.
• Heritage Approvals: If your property is in a heritage-listed area.

Costs:

• Fees vary depending on the project size and type. For example:
  • Building permit fees: $100–$500+.
  • Planning application fees: $150–$1,000+.
• Additional costs may apply for inspections or amendments.

Procedures:

1. Submit an application through your local council’s online portal or in person.
2. Provide detailed plans, drawings, and supporting documents.
3. Pay the required fees.
4. Wait for approval (processing times vary but can take several weeks).

Unique Considerations:

• Perth has strict zoning laws, so consult your council early in the planning process.
• Some councils offer pre-application meetings to guide you through the process.

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4. Rates and Property Services

Local councils collect rates (property taxes) to fund services and infrastructure.

Services Offered:

• Rates Notices: Issued annually, based on the property’s value.
• Property Valuations: Conducted by the Valuer-General to determine rates.
• Payment Plans: Options for paying rates in installments.

Costs:

• Rates vary depending on the property’s location, size, and value. Expect to pay around $1,000–$3,000 annually for residential properties.

Procedures:

• Rates notices are sent by mail or email.
• Payments can be made online, via BPAY, or at council offices.

Unique Considerations:

• Discounts or concessions may be available for pensioners or low-income residents.
• Late payments may incur penalties.

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5. Animal Registration and Control

Pet owners in Perth must register their animals with their local council.

Services Offered:

• Dog and Cat Registration: Mandatory for all pets over three months old.
• Lost and Found Services: Assistance in reuniting lost pets with their owners.
• Animal Control: Handling complaints about stray or nuisance animals.

Costs:

• Dog and cat registration fees:
  • $20–$50 annually for sterilized pets.
  • Higher fees for unsterilized pets.
• Lifetime registration options are available in some councils.

Procedures:

1. Complete a registration form (available online or at council offices).
2. Provide proof of sterilization and microchipping.
3. Pay the registration fee.

Unique Considerations:

• Perth has strict leash laws, and dogs must be kept on a leash in public areas unless in designated off-leash zones.
• Fines apply for unregistered pets or failure to clean up after your dog.

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6. Health and Safety Services

Local councils oversee public health and safety regulations.

Services Offered:

• Food Safety Inspections: For restaurants and food businesses.
• Noise Complaints: Handling issues related to excessive noise.
• Public Health Programs: Immunization clinics, pest control, etc.

Costs:

• Fees for food business licenses or inspections vary (e.g., $200–$500 annually).
• Noise complaints and public health services are generally free for residents.

Procedures:

• Contact your local council to report issues or apply for licenses.
• Food businesses must comply with the Food Act 2008 and undergo regular inspections.

Unique Considerations:

• Perth has strict food safety and noise regulations to maintain community well-being.

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7. Parking and Transport Services

Local councils manage parking facilities and permits in their areas.

Services Offered:

• Parking Permits: For residents, businesses, and visitors.
• Public Parking Facilities: Paid parking in city centers and popular areas.
• Parking Enforcement: Issuing fines for violations.

Costs:

• Resident parking permits: $20–$100 annually.
• Public parking fees: $2–$5 per hour in most areas.

Procedures:

• Apply for parking permits online or at council offices.
• Pay parking fees via meters, apps, or online systems.

Unique Considerations:

• Parking in Perth’s CBD can be expensive and limited. Use public transport where possible.
• Fines for parking violations can be steep, so always check signage.

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8. Community Support Services

Local councils provide support for vulnerable residents and promote community well-being.

Services Offered:

• Aged Care Services: Home support, transport, and social programs for seniors.
• Youth Services: Programs, events, and support for young people.
• Multicultural Services: Support for migrants and culturally diverse communities.
• Emergency Relief: Assistance during natural disasters or crises.

Costs:

• Many services are free or subsidized for eligible residents.

Procedures:

• Contact your local council’s community services department for information and eligibility criteria.

Unique Considerations:

• Perth is a multicultural city, and councils often host events celebrating diversity.

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Contact Information

• City of Perth:
  Website: www.perth.wa.gov.au
  Phone: +61 8 9461 3333
  Address: Council House, 27 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000

For other councils, visit the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) website to find your local council’s contact details.

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By understanding and utilizing these local government services, you’ll find it easier to navigate life in Perth and enjoy all the city has to offer!