CASE STUDIES

Dubbo Regional Council

Dubbo Regional Council engaged Resource Hub to conduct an operational process audit across its waste facilities, focusing on improving transaction accuracy, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. With the implementation of new digital systems and potential changes to NSW waste regulations on the horizon, it was crucial to future-proof its infrastructure and processes.

This project assessed waste facilities at Whylandra Waste and Recycling Centre and Wellington Transfer Station, with additional insights gained from a visit to the Geurie Transfer Station. Resource Hub worked closely with Council to identify key areas for improvement, streamline administrative workflows, and develop risk mitigation strategies to ensure continued compliance and efficiency.

By taking a proactive approach, Dubbo Regional Council is strengthening its waste management operations, ensuring best practices are in place to support long-term sustainability and adaptability in an evolving regulatory environment.

Whylandra Waste and Recycling Centre, Dubbo NSW, council waste management and operational audit site

Challenge

During the Coffs Harbour Waste 2024 Conference, discussions between Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) and Resource Hub identified a need to review and refine operational processes at Council’s waste facilities.

The key goals of this initiative were to:

Improve transaction capture and ensure the accuracy of waste data.
Assess infrastructure, systems, and staff capabilities to future-proof operations.
Identify and mitigate risks related to compliance, technology, and process inefficiencies.
Support the transition to a newly implemented digital tipping voucher system.
Prepare for potential regulatory changes, including the expansion of the NSW Waste Levy Zone.

With multiple sites operating under different conditions, it was essential to take a tailored approach while providing clear, overarching recommendations for improving efficiency and compliance.

What We Did

Resource Hub conducted an in-depth operational process audit across DRC’s key waste facilities, focusing on transactional systems, risk mitigation, and future-proofing strategies.

Site Review and Operational Analysis

Conducted detailed assessments at Whylandra Waste and Recycling Centre and Wellington Transfer Station.
Incorporated additional insights from a brief visit to the Geurie Transfer Station to gain a broader understanding of regional waste operations.
Evaluated waste acceptance protocols, infrastructure capabilities, and operational efficiencies.

Data Governance & Compliance Review

Audited gatehouse software and transactional data for accuracy, usability, and regulatory alignment.
Identified opportunities to refine data governance practices for improved reporting and compliance.
Reviewed the new tipping voucher system implementation and assessed its impact on operations.

Strategic Future-Proofing

Provided recommendations to ensure infrastructure and systems are prepared for potential NSW Waste Levy Zone expansions.
Developed strategies to mitigate operational and financial risks associated with regulatory changes.

Outcomes

The findings from this operational process audit provided Dubbo Regional Council with:

A clearer understanding of the strengths and challenges within its waste facilities.
Actionable recommendations to enhance transaction accuracy, operational efficiency, and risk mitigation.
A strategic roadmap for ensuring compliance and preparing for future regulatory shifts.
A comprehensive action and risk register to support future planning and decision-making.

By taking a proactive approach, Dubbo Regional Council is setting the foundation for more efficient, sustainable, and compliant waste operations that will continue to serve the community effectively.

Conclusion

Dubbo Regional Council’s commitment to continuous improvement positions them as a leader in forward-thinking waste management. By assessing current processes and preparing for future challenges, they are ensuring their waste facilities remain efficient, compliant, and adaptable to evolving regulations.

Resource Hub is proud to have partnered with Dubbo Regional Council on this initiative and looks forward to supporting their ongoing efforts in delivering high-quality waste management services across the region.