Old medicine

Old medicines can be dangerous to you and your family, and bad for the environment.

Get rid of old or unwanted medicines at your local pharmacy through the Return Unwanted Medicines (RUM) program.

Syringes

If you find needles or syringes on public or private land, call the Needle Exchange on (02) 4275 1529. They operate between 8 am and 5.30 pm Monday to Friday, and can quickly arrange collection by a qualified person in most cases during these hours.

If you feel ok about handling the discarded needle or syringe safely, follow these steps:

• Place the needle in a strong puncture-proof container with a lid. Don't use a glass container as it can break.
• Carry the container to the needle, place the needle inside the container and make sure the lid is on tightly.
• Call the Needle Exchange to arrange for pick up or take it to a drop off location.

See these websites to learn more about disposing of needles or syringes:

• NSW Health Community sharps disposal
• Diabetes NSW

Kidney dialysis patients

Council offers a Kidney Dialysis Residual Waste Service for households that have excessive residual waste associated with kidney dialysis which can't be managed using the standard collection service.

To apply for this service, please visit the Wollongong Waste website