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The ACT Government is releasing draft tender documentation for the Territory’s household waste collection contract.

For the first time, the contract will encompass all collection services including household waste, recycling, green waste and a bulky waste collection service. The contract will also support the future city-wide FOGO collection service.

Draft tender documentation will also have binding principles that provide secure local jobs, comprehensive waste services and start the transition to zero-emissions waste vehicles – supporting the ACT’s nation leading transition to a net zero-emissions future.

Industry members will come together tomorrow and be presented with the draft waste collection service tender for the ACT.

Due to the size and complexity of the waste collection service tender the Government will be providing industry with a two-week open comment period to go through aspects of the documentation that may require further explanation or revision. The open comment period is being offered to inform prospective tenderers of the Government’s objectives for the new service and to gather feedback that can refine and enhance the tender process to ensure it delivers the best service and value for money for the Territory.

The draft tender requests the successful contractor to demonstrate the use of zero‑emissions vehicle technology such as hydrogen fuel cell or battery electric technology and development of a zero-emissions transition plan.

The ACT Government is committed to supporting the large workforce of this essential service by ensuring continuity of employment. The draft tender has a requirement to offer employment to the employees of the outgoing contractors that are on the same terms and conditions as their existing arrangements.

The procurement is based on an initial service term of eight years. It is anticipated the process, including the signing of contracts, will be completed this year.

Canberrans will not experience changes to household collection services under this contract.

Following the two-week open comment period, feedback from industry providers will be considered and any relevant changes will be made to the draft tender documentation.

The tender is expected to be released within two months of the close of the open comment period.

Comments attributable to Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel:

“The ACT Government is continuing our nation leading action on climate change by requesting the waste industry to demonstrate zero-emissions waste trucks in Canberra.

“As we build a sustainable city with more waste services, we are delivering our election commitment to provide good, secure local jobs along the way.”