Composting in strata and how to reduce waste and build community

Composting is one of the simplest and most rewarding things a strata community can do together. It reduces waste, supports shared gardens, and gives residents a hands-on way to contribute to something meaningful. And it doesn’t require much space or investment to get started.

Strata communities around Australia are already doing it. In Queensland, one building is redeveloping its composting system, relocating and expanding it, adding new bays, and creating educational resources to bring more residents into the program. In Western Australia, another building uses vermicomposting to recycle kitchen waste, with plans to expand into a larger system that can handle garden waste too.

How do you get started?

First, get buy-in from your strata committee and at least a handful of willing residents. Composting works best when there’s a small, committed group keeping it going.

Next, identify a suitable spot on common property, ideally close to garden beds or greenery where the finished compost can actually be used. Any use of common property needs Owners Corporation approval, so bring a simple proposal to a general meeting.

Then choose the right system for your building. Tumbler bins, open bays and worm farms all work well in different contexts. It’s worth checking with your local council too, as many offer free or subsidised composting equipment.

Over time, a composting program can meaningfully reduce organic waste, enrich shared garden spaces, and bring residents together around a shared purpose. It’s one of those initiatives that starts small and quietly becomes one of the most loved things about a building.

For information on composting equipment and programs available in your area, get in touch with your local council.