Reducing your waste

Fixing or repurposing an item usually uses fewer resources than replacing it, and it’s a great way to build new skills. You can get involved in local groups or explore online tutorials for ideas and inspiration:

• Repair Cafe or Repair Labs: work with others to fix household items and pick up practical skills.

• Men's Shed's and Women's Shed's: welcoming community spaces to connect, create and learn.

• Visible Mending Movement: transform simple repairs into creative expression.

• City of Wanneroo skills workshops: hands-on sessions to build confidence in repairing and reusing. 

Visit the City's event calendar

You can also explore platforms like Pinterest and YouTube, which are full of creative DIY and repair ideas.

Donating your quality items not only gives them a new life but also helps support individuals and organisations in need. Below are some charities and specialist programs where your items can make a difference.

Check out what items are accepted with Recycle Right Reuse A - Z list.

General charities

• Salvos Stores

• Good Sammy

• Vinnies

• Save the Children

• Alinea

• People Who Care

• No Limits

• Reuse shops at local waste facilities

Specialist programs

Support specific causes by donating items to these tailored programs:

• Fair Game: Provides pre-loved sports equipment to communities in need

• Give Write: Collects and redistributes stationery and school supplies for students from disadvantaged backgrounds

• Hello Initiative: Rehomes mobile phones to help vulnerable individuals stay connected

• ReMida: Accepts craft materials to support creative reuse and education

• Grow Free: Share and swap homegrown produce, seeds, and plants within your community.

Swapping or rehoming  items is a great way to pass on goods you no longer need while discovering something you love.

• Buy Nothing Groups: Found on Facebook, these groups encourage gifting and swapping within your local community.

• Street Libraries: Share and borrow books through mini libraries in your neighbourhood.

Run a clothes swap with friends or a community event. For more information visit the Full Circle Collective website.

Earn some extra cash by selling quality items online or in person.

Online marketplaces

These platforms provide great options for selling items online: Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Rosella Street, and GarageSaleIT.

Important note: When buying or selling online, it’s important to stay safe. To find out more visit Introduction to Buying and Selling Online, provided by Be Connected.

In-person

Host a garage sale to connect with your neighbours and rehome your items face-to-face.

Consider joining the annual Garage Sale Trail and join a national movement.