Waverley is preparing for a possible fuel shortage by looking at electric garbage trucks and its own fuel supply, aiming to keep rubbish collection running without disruption.
Waverley Council has begun looking at ways to reduce its reliance on diesel, including shifting key vehicles such as garbage trucks to electric models. Documents and planning reports show that while most passenger vehicles in its fleet are already electric, heavier vehicles still depend on fuel.
At the same time, officials are assessing whether it can store fuel at its Alexandria depot, possibly working with the nearby Woollahra Council. This step is aimed at ensuring trucks, street sweepers and lifeguard vehicles can continue operating if supply becomes limited.
Council representatives have indicated that services such as rubbish collection and beach patrols are still operating as normal, with no current fuel shortages affecting day-to-day work.
Rising Fuel Costs Put Pressure on Local Budgets
It was estimated that fuel costs are adding about $30,000 each month to its expenses. Despite this, Council has stated that residents will not face higher rates due to the current situation.
Under NSW law, they must ensure that domestic waste charges reflect only the cost of providing services. Waverley is now exploring whether those funds could temporarily help manage the financial strain caused by higher fuel prices, while staying within legal limits.
Statewide Concerns Over Fuel Supply
Waverley’s actions reflect a broader concern shared across the state. Local Government NSW has warned that without stable fuel supply, essential services like waste collection could face disruption in the coming months.
The organisation has also called on the state government to support councils through existing mechanisms, such as the waste levy, to ease the impact of rising fuel costs. Data collected from councils is being used to assess how widespread the issue may become.
At the national level, fuel security measures have encouraged motorists and organisations to limit consumption, adding to the sense that supply pressures may continue.
Shift to Electric Fleet Already Underway
Waverley’s long-term plans already include a gradual transition to electric vehicles, with environmental strategies aiming for a fully electric fleet where practical. Council reports highlight that fleet operations are a major source of emissions, and electrification is seen as a way to reduce both costs and environmental impact over time.
The current investigation into electric garbage trucks builds on this direction, though the technology is still emerging and may require further testing before full adoption.
Published 22-April-2026
