The Town of East Fremantle will join other Perth councils in offering a new on-demand verge collection service.

From July 1, residents will be able to book two green waste collections and one white and metal goods collection each financial year.

The town has previously offered three scheduled verge collections each financial year, but limited contractor availability has led to increased collection costs and reduced flexibility for collection dates.

Mayor Tony Natale said the upcoming trial would address these community concerns.

“Our current approach is no longer considered fit for purpose,” he said.

“Trialling an on-demand, bulk waste service better reflects the evolving needs of our community and strengthens our commitment to sustainable waste management.

“It also allows residents to choose collection days that suit them and aligns with the approach taken by many other local governments.”

Other councils that offer a valet verge service include Canning, Melville, Vincent, Cottesloe and Stirling.

The East Fremantle council backed the trial unanimously at its March 17 meeting.

Cr Cliff Collinson said the town had little choice as it was unable to get a contractor but it would have “obvious environmental benefits”.

“We know the bulk rubbish pick-up messes up the whole street. A whole lot of stuff gets put out there that probably shouldn’t be,” he said.

“I know there will be a backlash … but once people get used to it, it will work pretty well.

“There’s not much else we can do.”

Cr Stephanie Boyd said she would back it on the basis that it was a two-year trial.

She said there was a petition in the neighbouring City of Melville for the return of verge collections.

“I am curious whether or not the emissions will in turn reduce as the result of multiple ad hoc trips throughout the year as opposed to one concentrated effort,” Cr Boyd said.

Mr Natale said the two‑year trial would enable the town to better understand the community need before committing to a long-term strategy.

“The trial will run from 1 July 2026 until 30 June 2028, allowing time for the town to understand how residents use the service,” he said.

“It will also provide data about likely costs and operational impacts to help inform a long-term service model.”

The current scheduled verge collection service costs about $180,000 per year.

Costs for the new on-demand model will operate on a per-collection basis and depend on its uptake.

Data from comparable local governments estimates the new model will cost about $185,300 for the 2026-27 financial year.

However, it is predicted to provide better value for money for residents due to improved service flexibility and equitability.

Bulk waste collection services will continue under the current model for the rest of this financial year, with bookings for the new on-demand service beginning from Wednesday, July 1.

Residents will also continue to receive one tip pass each financial year to the Henderson Waste Recovery Park in Cockburn, and access to the Fremantle Recycling Centre will remain available.