Composting Rebate Scheme

The City of Karratha is offering a Composting Rebate to help residents start composting at home and reduce organic waste sent to landfill.

This initiative encourages sustainable household waste practices and supports the City’s commitment to waste reduction, circular economy initiatives and long-term environmental sustainability.

Why compost

Composting transforms kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil that improves plant health while reducing the need for chemical fertilisers. 

It also helps lower greenhouse gas emissions by diverting organic waste from landfill, making it one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact at home.

How the rebate works

City of Karratha residents can apply for a rebate after purchasing eligible composting equipment locally.

Rebates cover 50% of the cost, up to the following maximum amounts:

  • Composting bin - 50% up to $80
  • Worm farm - 50% up to $80
  • Bokashi bin - 50% up to $50
  • Pet waste composting system - 50% up to $50

By participating in the Composting Rebate Scheme, residents will: 

  • Reduce household organic waste sent to landfill.
  • Lower greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Support local businesses through increased demand for composting products.
  • Promote sustainable living within the community.
  • Contribute to the City of Karratha's Environmental Sustainability and Waste Management Strategy 2025–2035.

Not sure which system suits you best? The following will help you to decide:

Factors to considerBokashi binEnsoPet Pet waste composterCompost binWorm farm
Dwelling suitability

House 

Apartment 

Office 

Limited garden 

House 

School 

Garden required 

House 

School 

Garden required 

House 

Apartment 

Office 

Limited garden

Location 

Indoor 

Outside 

Avoid direct sun

Outside only 

Must be buried in soil

Outside only 

Sunny area 

Away from house

Indoor 

Outside 

Avoid direct sun

Efficiency 

Efficient break down 

Tough dry scraps take longer and need to be buried in soil

Efficient break down

In-ground breakdown

 Variable speed 

Faster with maintaining Can dry out

Fast 

Heat-sensitive 

Needs moisture

Odour levelsNo odour if sealedEnsoPet starter eliminates odourNil if well maintained carbon/nitrate ratiosNil if well maintained
Maintenance costs Approximately $13 per bokashi mixApproximately $14 per EnsoPet starter mixNo ongoing costNo ongoing cost
Fertiliser productsLiquid onlyIn-ground soil enrichment Solid compostLiquid and solid compost
Waste accepted 
  • Veggie scraps
  • Citrus/onion
  • Meat/bones
  • Dairy
  • Tea/coffee grounds
  • Egg shells
  • Garden waste
  • Paper/cardboard (small) 

❌ No pet waste

  • Pet poo only 

❌ No food waste 

❌ No garden waste

  • Veggie scraps
  • Citrus/onion (small)
  • Dairy
  • Tea/coffee grounds
  • Egg shells
  • Garden waste
  • Pet poo (vegetarian)
  • Paper/cardboard (small)

❌ No meat/bones

  • Veggie scraps
  • Citrus/onion (small)
  • Tea/coffee grounds
  • Egg shells
  • Garden waste
  • Paper/cardboard (small)
  • Pet poo (vegetarian)

❌ No meat/bones

❌ No dairy

Terms and Conditions:

  • All residents within the City of Karratha are eligible to apply.
  • Only purchases of eligible composting systems (compost bins, worm farms, Bokashi bins, pet waste systems) made after the launch date are eligible.
  • The rebate amount is 50% of the purchase price, up to the maximums of $80 for compost bins and worm farms, and $50 for Bokashi bins and pet waste systems.
  • One purchase per eligible item per household is eligible for a rebate.
  • Equipment must be branded and purchased from suppliers within the City of Karratha; home-made composting systems are not eligible.
  • Applications must be submitted with a valid receipt of purchase.
  • Rebate claims must be submitted after the product has been purchased.
  • The City reserves the right to verify eligibility and request additional information before processing rebates.
  • Rebates are limited to residential use only and are intended for domestic composting.
  • Rebates are not transferable or redeemable for cash.
  • By submitting an application, you agree to comply with all Terms and Conditions.
  • The City of Karratha may amend or discontinue the rebate scheme at any time without notice. 
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