City of Darwin residents have enthusiastically embraced home composting, with more than 100 households approved for a rebate through the Compost Bin Rebate program, helping to divert valuable organic material from landfill.

The rebate program, which offered up to $100 towards the purchase of a compost bin, worm farm or bokashi system from a local Northern Territory supplier, has now closed for the 2025/26 financial year.

Lord Mayor Peter Styles said the strong response demonstrated the community's commitment to sustainable living and managing household food waste at its source.

"Food waste makes up a significant portion of what we send to landfill, and it's encouraging to see so many residents taking practical action to reduce their environmental impact," Mr Styles said.

"By composting at home, residents are turning food scraps into a valuable resource for their gardens while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with landfill," he said.

The program attracted a broad range of participants, with residents purchasing a relatively even mix of upright compost bins, tumbler compost bins and smaller benchtop bokashi systems.

"The diversity of composting systems chosen shows there is a home composting solution for almost every household, whether you have a large backyard, a small courtyard or limited outdoor space," Mr Styles said.

"What's been most pleasing is the level of enthusiasm we've seen from residents who are keen to start composting and learn more about reducing waste at home."

The initiative supports City of Darwin's ongoing efforts to reduce waste sent to landfill and encourage more sustainable waste management practices across the municipality. 

Home composting is one of the most effective ways households can reduce the amount of waste entering the waste stream.

The 2026/27 Compost Bin Rebate program is expected to open early in the next financial year with supporting community education workshops.

Residents interested in participating in the rebate program when it reopens are encouraged to keep an eye on City of Darwin's website for updates. 

For more information about home composting and future rebate opportunities, visit darwin.nt.gov.au/compost-bin-rebate