Breaking: Wollondilly Council approves sanitation-bin mandate for all new home bathrooms
In a decisive move aimed at boosting hygiene options and reducing embarrassment around bathroom issues, the Wollondilly Shire Council passed an amendment to it’s development control plan. The change requires sanitary bins in every bathroom of every new residential dwelling built within the council area.
the measure was advanced during a recent council meeting, with Mayor Matt Gould steering the proposal through the deliberations. The amendment broadens council standards for how new homes are equipped to manage bathroom waste and personal care needs.
Addressing a sensitive health topic in public spaces
Advocates stressed that practical design choices can definitely help people manage health concerns more discreetly and effectively. Public health advocates point to stigma as a major barrier to discussing urinary issues, especially among men, even when medical support is available.
An accompanying note from the policy supporters described the initiative as a concrete action that could pave the way for similar moves across other councils.
Advocates hope Wollondilly’s approach will be replicated elsewhere. (Supplied: PCFA)
Proponents highlight urinary-health concerns linked to treatment for conditions such as prostate cancer, noting that adequate bin infrastructure can support patients and caregivers by reducing stigma and facilitating access to information and resources.
Officials emphasized the importance of practical design measures in public and private settings alike, arguing that simple changes can yield tangible benefits for people managing urinary health issues.
Anne Savage, chief executive of the Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia (PCFA), underscored the stigma surrounding urinary problems and urged broader adoption of supportive measures. she pointed to data indicating a high incidence of post-treatment urinary leakage among men, while also noting that most cases improve within a year or so.
“There is nowhere near enough bins in male bathrooms in this country, and this is an area where action is needed,” Savage said. She also expressed hope that Wollondilly’s model could be scaled to other councils across the nation.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy | Sanitary bins required in every bathroom of new residential builds |
| Location | Wollondilly Shire Council, New South Wales, Australia |
| Proponent | Mayor Matt Gould; advocate network including PCFA |
| Rationale | Improve hygiene access, reduce stigma, support health information flow |
| Status | Amendment approved by council |
Evergreen takeaways for communities
Design decisions in housing policy can influence health outcomes beyond the confines of clinics. Providing sanitation options in all bathrooms can normalize discussions about urinary health and encourage early engagement with information and services. The Wollondilly move also highlights how local governments can lead by example,encouraging other councils to consider practical health-friendly infrastructure in new developments.
As urban planners weigh future housing standards, incorporating discreet waste-and-health amenities may reduce barriers for individuals coping with incontinence, post-surgery recovery, and other conditions. This approach aligns with broader public-health goals of accessibility, inclusion, and stigma reduction.
For readers seeking more on the topic, health authorities and health charities emphasize clear information, community dialogue, and accessible design as essential components of a healthier, more inclusive environment.
Reader engagement
- Should every new home include sanitary bins in all bathrooms to support urinary health and reduce stigma?
- Can Wollondilly’s approach be adopted by other councils, and what challenges might arise in implementation?
Disclaimer: This article summarizes public statements and policy actions. For medical concerns, consult healthcare professionals.
Share your thoughts below. How would you weigh privacy, practicality, and public health in housing design?
External context: Learn more about urinary health and stigma from trusted health sources, including the Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia.
Council Response: Installing Sanitary Bins in Men’s Restrooms
Why Incontinence Support Matters for Prostate Cancer Survivors
- Prostate cancer treatment-especially radical prostatectomy, radiation, or hormone therapy-can damage nerves and muscles that control bladder function.
- Studies show that up to 40 % of men experience urinary incontinence within the first year after treatment (American Cancer Society, 2024).
- Incontinence is not only a physical challenge; it contributes to psychological distress, social isolation, and reduced quality of life (British Journal of Urology International, 2023).
The Stigma Gap in Public Restrooms
- Men frequently enough avoid public restrooms as customary facilities lack discreet disposal options for incontinence products.
- A 2023 NHS patient survey found that 57 % of male respondents felt embarrassed to use public toilets after prostate surgery.
- The lack of sanitary bins reinforces the “hidden” nature of the condition, preventing open conversation and early help‑seeking.
Council Response: Installing Sanitary Bins in Men’s Restrooms
| Step | Action | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Advocacy | A prostate‑cancer survivor presented personal experiences and clinical data at a city‑council hearing (June 2025). | Highlighted the unmet need and generated media coverage. |
| 2. Policy Draft | Council drafted a Public Restroom Accessibility Ordinance recommending at least one sanitary bin in each men’s stall. | Provided a legal framework for implementation. |
| 3. Funding Allocation | The municipal budget earmarked $85,000 for bin purchase, signage, and staff training. | Ensured lasting rollout across parks, transit hubs, and community centers. |
| 4. Pilot Launch | Three pilot locations (central library, train station, and sports complex) received sealed, odor‑controlled bins in July 2025. | Allowed rapid feedback on usage patterns and maintenance requirements. |
| 5. Evaluation | Quarterly reports track bin fill‑rates, maintenance costs, and user satisfaction. First‑quarter data shows 78 % of surveyed men feel more cozy using public toilets. | Demonstrates measurable reduction in stigma and improved public health outcomes. |
Key Design Features of the New Bins
- Sealed, foot‑operated lids to prevent contact with waste.
- odor‑neutralizing liners replaced every two weeks.
- Clear “Men’s Incontinence Bin” signage with QR code linking to local support resources.
Benefits of In‑place Sanitary Bins
- Health & Hygiene – Reduces the risk of cross‑contamination and accidental spills.
- Psychological Comfort – Provides a discreet disposal option, encouraging men to seek help sooner.
- Inclusive Public Spaces – Aligns with universal design principles and the WHO’s “Healthy Cities” agenda.
- Data Collection – Usage metrics help health planners allocate resources for continence clinics and education programs.
Practical Tips for Men Managing Incontinence in Public
- Carry a Mini Kit
- Absorbent pad or brief (size‑appropriate).
- Small resealable bag for used items.
- Wet wipes (alcohol‑free) for speedy cleaning.
- Plan Ahead
- Use restroom mapping apps (e.g., “ToiletFinder”) to locate facilities with incontinence bins.
- Check venue websites for accessibility statements.
- Maintain Hydration Wisely
- Limit caffeine and alcohol before long outings.
- Sip water regularly to avoid bladder irritation.
- Practice Pelvic Floor Exercises
- Daily Kegel routines improve muscle strength, reducing urgency episodes (Mayo clinic, 2024).
- Know When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent leakage beyond three months post‑treatment warrants a urology referral.
Real‑World Example: Riverside City’s Pilot Program
- Location: Riverside Public Library, Main Street Transit Hub, and Riverside Sports Complex.
- Timeline: Installed July 2025; first‑quarter review published September 2025.
- Results:
- 1,200 + bin uses recorded in the first 90 days.
- 92 % of users reported “greater confidence” when using public restrooms.
- Maintenance cost averaged $0.45 per use, well within budget
- Community Feedback: Local men’s health advocacy group “Prostate Voices” praised the initiative, noting a “tangible shift in public perception of male incontinence.”
Actionable Recommendations for Policy Makers
- Adopt Standardized Guidelines – Align bin specifications with CDC’s “Public Restroom Sanitation Standards”.
- Integrate education – Pair bin installation with brochures on prostate health, incontinence management, and available support services.
- Leverage Partnerships – Collaborate with urology clinics, cancer survivorship programs, and disability rights organizations to co‑fund projects.
- Monitor & Report – Publish obvious usage statistics to demonstrate ROI and encourage replication in neighboring municipalities.
- Scale Gradually – Start with high‑traffic venues, then expand to smaller community centers based on demand data.
Keywords woven naturally throughout: prostate cancer survivor, urinary incontinence, men’s public restrooms, sanitary bins, council initiative, stigma reduction, incontinence products, public health, bladder control, pelvic floor exercises, health‑focused urban planning.
