Get Up to $200 Back: Your Complete Guide to Australian Council Rebates
Yes, councils will actually pay you to make the switch to reusables—here's how to claim yours
Here's something most Australian parents don't know: Your local council might pay you up to $200 to switch to cloth nappies and reusable wipes.
Not a voucher. Not a discount code. Actual cash back in your bank account. Sounds too good to be true? It's not. Councils across Australia are so serious about reducing landfill waste that they're literally paying families to make the switch to reusables.
Why are Council rebates a thing?
Let's talk numbers for a second:
- Each child goes through approximately 6,000 disposable nappies before toilet training
- Disposable nappies and sanitary products make up 9-10% of household waste
- Every single disposable nappy takes hundreds of years to break down
- Councils spend millions annually dealing with sewage blockages from "flushable" wipes
It's not just an environmental problem, it's a massive financial burden for local governments. So they're getting smart: instead of dealing with the waste, they're preventing it.
Translation: Councils save money by paying you to switch. Everyone wins.
What Can You Actually Claim?
Most rebate programs cover 50% of your purchase price, with caps ranging from $50 to $200 depending on your council.
Eligible items typically include:
- Cloth nappies (of course)
- Reusable cloth wipes (yes!)
- Swim nappies
- Wet bags
- Nappy inserts and liners
- Reusable breast pads
- Training nappies
Some councils even extend rebates to reusable menstrual products and incontinence items.
Which Councils Are Offering Rebates Right Now?
As of December 2025, councils across every Australian state and territory are running rebate programs. Here's the breakdown:
🟢 New South Wales
*Parramatta's rebate is currently closed but may reopen—check their website
🟡 Queensland
🔵 Victoria
🟠 Western Australia
*Requires attendance at free cloth nappy workshop before claiming
🟣 Tasmania
🔴 South Australia
Important: This list is current as of December 2025, but programs change regularly. Always check your local council website for the most up-to-date information.
How to Claim Your Rebate (The Simple Version)
The process is surprisingly straightforward:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Visit your local council website or search "[Your Council Name] cloth nappy rebate." Most require you to be a resident with proof of address.
Step 2: Make Your Purchase
Buy your cloth nappies, wipes, or other eligible items. Keep your receipt/invoice—you'll need it. Most councils require purchases made within the last 3-6 months.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Fill out the online form (most councils have moved to digital applications). You'll typically need:
- Proof of residence (rates notice or utility bill)
- Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Receipt showing itemized purchases
Step 4: Get Paid
Most councils process rebates within 4-8 weeks. The money goes straight into your bank account.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Rebate
1. Attend Free Workshops (If Required)
Some WA councils require workshop attendance before you can claim. Bonus: These workshops are actually helpful and you often get free samples.
2. Check What's Included
Don't forget that cloth wipes, wet bags, and even breast pads are often eligible. Bundle your purchase to maximize your rebate.
3. Time Your Purchase
Some programs operate on a "first come, first served" basis or have annual budget limits. Don't wait until the end of the financial year.
4. One Rebate Per Household
Most councils limit it to one rebate per household, but some allow separate applications for nappy and sanitary product rebates.
5. Keep Everything Organized
Make sure your receipt shows:
- Retailer name
- Date of purchase
- Itemized list (not just "total")
- Your name
What If My Council Isn't on the List?
Don't give up yet. Here's what you can do:
1. Double-Check
Council websites aren't always easy to navigate. Try searching for:
- "[Council name] sustainability rebate"
- "[Council name] waste reduction"
- "[Council name] reusable products"
2. Check Aggregator Sites
- Rebately.co - Compiles council rebates in one place
- Cloth nappy retailer websites often maintain updated lists
3. Write to Your Council
Seriously. Councils listen to residents. Here's how:
Dear [Council Name],
I'm writing to encourage the introduction of rebates for cloth nappies and reusable products. Disposable nappies make up approximately 10% of our household waste, and given the rising cost of living, a rebate program would benefit both families and the environment.
[Neighboring Council Name] has successfully implemented such a program. I'd love to see [Your Council Name] join them in supporting sustainable parenting choices.
Thank you for considering this initiative.
The Australian Nappy Association has template letters available—use them! The more residents who ask, the more likely councils are to act.
The Bigger Picture: It's Not Just About the Money
Yes, getting $100-$200 back is great. But here's what else you're doing:
- Saving long-term: A full cloth nappy stash costs around $700 vs. $3,000+ for disposables
- Reducing landfill: Keeping 6,000 nappies per child out of the ground
- Protecting waterways: No chemicals leaching into soil and water
- Supporting local business: Many cloth nappy brands are Australian-made
- Voting with your wallet: Showing councils that sustainability matters to you
Important Updates & Changes
Programs to Watch:
- Townsville: Current rebate ends June 30, 2025—check if it's been extended
- Parramatta: Temporarily closed but may reopen
- Many councils: Running trial programs that may become permanent
Ready to Claim Your Rebate?
Here's your action plan:
- ✓ Check if your council offers a rebate
- ✓ Read the specific requirements (some need workshop attendance)
- ✓ Make your purchase and keep your receipt
- ✓ Apply within the timeframe (usually 3-6 months)
- ✓ Get your money back and enjoy your reusables!
Remember: Every cloth nappy you use is one less nappy in landfill for the next 500 years. And now your council is paying you to do it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I claim for second-hand nappies?
A: Some councils accept pre-owned nappies if you have adequate proof of purchase. Check your specific council's terms.
Q: Do I need to use them full-time?
A: Nope! Even part-time cloth use makes a difference. No judgment, just less waste.
Q: What about daycare centres—can they claim?
A: Most residential rebates are for households only, but centres should contact their council about bulk purchasing or business sustainability programs.
Q: How long does the rebate take to process?
A: Typically 4-8 weeks, but this varies by council.
Q: Can I combine this with other discounts?
A: Absolutely! Buy during a sale, use a discount code, THEN claim your rebate on top.
The Bottom Line
Here's what it comes down to:
Australian councils are literally paying you to reduce waste, save money, and make better choices for your family and the planet. The rebates are real, the process is simple, and the savings add up fast.
Whether you're expecting, have a newborn, or are finally ready to ditch disposables—now is the perfect time to check if your council has cash waiting for you.
Because honestly? When someone offers to pay you to do the right thing, you take them up on it.