What are the Cocos Keeling Islands?

Often referred to by their full name, the Cocos Keeling Islands are the remnants of an extinct volcano. There are 27 islands in the group of which only 2 have settlements. The main island for travellers is West Island. Here you will find most of the accommodation, eateries, shops and the airport.

Does the Australian government support the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

A spokesperson for the Department of Infrastructure said the Australian government provides the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands with a significant level of funding to meet its local government obligations, including waste management.

Are the Cocos (Keeling) Islands littered with rubbish?

A study published by the University of WA last year found the Cocos (Keeling) Islands were among the most heavily affected by beached waste in the Indian Ocean. Studies have estimated the Cocos (Keeling) Islands are littered with hundreds of tonnes of rubbish. (Supplied: Silke Stuckenbrock)

How much does a rubbish bin collection cost in Cocos (Keeling) Islands?

Earlier this year, the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands increased the residents' rubbish bin collection fee by 55 per cent while government agencies received a 1,200 per cent rise. The annual cost of a bin collection on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is now $580 for residents and almost $5,000 for public agencies.

Where are the Cocos Islands located?

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are an Australian territory located in the Indian Ocean, about 3,000 kilometres north-west of Perth. (ABC Pilbara: Alice Angeloni) Only two of the 27 coral islands are populated, with dump sites on each hosting stockpiles of fridges, washing machines, boats and bikes.

How much does a bin collection cost on the Cocos Islands?

The annual cost of a bin collection on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is now $580 for residents and almost $5,000 for public agencies. So far, government agencies have refused to pay.