From 1 July 2026, new NSW Government requirements come into effect for businesses that generate food waste.
The Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) mandate requires eligible businesses to separate food waste from general waste. The aim is to reduce what goes to landfill and turn organic material into useful products like compost.
Why this is changing
Greater Sydney is expected to run out of landfill capacity by 2030, with organic waste making up a large share of what is currently sent to landfill.
Separating food waste helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports a more circular use of resources.
Who this applies to
The requirements apply to businesses and institutions that prepare, sell or handle food, including:
- cafes, restaurants and food courts
- pubs and clubs
- supermarkets
- hospitals, aged care and similar facilities
From 1 July 2026, the largest waste generators must comply first, with further stages rolling out to smaller businesses over time.
Check if your business needs to comply from 1 July 2026.
What businesses need to do
Businesses in scope must:
- separate food organics from general waste
- have a dedicated food organics collection service
- ensure food waste is collected and processed separately (at least weekly)
Council’s role
North Sydney Council supports local businesses to understand the new requirements and monitors compliance across the local area.
Get support through the Better Business Partnership and book a free waste consultation.
North Sydney businesses can get free support to prepare for FOGO by joining the Better Business Partnership.
The partnership offers practical advice, tools and networking opportunities to help businesses reduce waste, improve sustainability and meet new requirements like FOGO.
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