Western Sydney councils are seeking a five-year extension to the NSW government's 2030 deadline for implementing food and organic waste (FOGO) collections. 

The Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC), representing several councils, is proposing a new deadline of 2035 for multi-unit dwellings. 

They argue that apartments would require modifications to accommodate additional bins. 

WSROC President Barry Calvert has called for a tailored approach, saying; “What fits for Parramatta will not fit for the Blue Mountains”. 

The motion to change the deadline will be presented at the Local Government NSW annual conference. 

Currently, only four of Sydney's 26 councils have fully established FOGO collections, with others in trial phases.

In contrast, Penrith City Council has been running a FOGO program since 2009, with notable success. 

The council composted nearly 40,000 tonnes of FOGO waste in 2022, contributing to the city's gardens and sports fields. 

WSROC acknowledges the need to learn from Penrith's experience. While some councils face challenges in implementing FOGO, Penrith's model appears to demonstrate the potential benefits and success of such programs.

Sydney's Inner West Council recently initiated FOGO waste collection, which led to some confusion among residents due to changes in bin collection schedules. 

Despite initial challenges, Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne highlighted the significant benefits of adopting FOGO programs, including diverting food waste from landfills.

WSROC is calling for individualised solutions in partnership with the state government to ensure a smoother rollout of FOGO collections, recognising the unique needs of each council area.