In a significant move to promote sustainability, Hawkesbury City Council launched a rebate scheme in November 2024 aimed at encouraging households to purchase reusable products. The initiative offers financial incentives for the acquisition of reusable nappies, reusable sanitary products, and rechargeable batteries, among other eco-friendly items.
So far, the program has seen a substantial uptake, particularly for rebates on cloth nappies. Under this scheme, households can claim 50% of the cost of various items, including cloth nappies, swim nappies, reusable inner liners, wet bags, reusable wipes, and nursing pads, with a maximum rebate of $100 per household. In addition, residents can also claim half the cost of rechargeable batteries—specifically AA, AAA, C, and D-sized batteries and their chargers—up to a limit of $50 per household. These items are readily available at retailers like Officeworks, Woolworths, and Coles.
The rebate initiative is designed to alleviate the initial expenses associated with reusable products, promoting a transition away from single-use alternatives. While these sustainable options may have a higher upfront cost, they offer potential savings of over $1,000 annually and contribute to a reduced environmental footprint.
Statistics reveal that absorbent hygiene products, including nappies and sanitary items, account for 8% of household waste in red bins. Moreover, improperly disposed batteries pose fire hazards, putting waste management workers at risk.
To qualify for the rebate, applicants must demonstrate residency in the Hawkesbury Local Government Area and submit receipts showing purchases of eligible products made within three months of the rebate claim.
The rebate program also covers reusable sanitary items, allowing households to claim 50% of the cost of reusable pads, cups, period underwear, and associated wet bags, up to a maximum of $50.
This trial initiative is set for a 12-month period, with the possibility of concluding earlier if the allocated funding is exhausted. Should the program prove successful, there may be opportunities for it to continue beyond the initial trial phase.
For more information and to apply for your rebate, visit: https://rebately.co/hawkesbury/ or email [email protected]
