New garbage and recycling bins have been rolled out following the signing of a new contract between Port Stephens Council and Sita (part of the Suez Environment group), replacing Solo Resource Recovery.

The new contract means the annual bulk and green waste kerbside collections will be replaced with a booking system for two pick-ups a year.

"We believe this will be a fantastic new service for our residents because they won't have to wait around for scheduled collection days or contend with waste sitting outside every house on the street," Dr Aaron Malloy, council's waste management co-ordinator, said.

"Families can plan when they need to have a clean out, and just call 1300 734 470 to arrange a collection of any bulky, metal or green waste."

Dr Molloy said 479 households had taken up an option for a bigger recycling bin for a one-off fee. More are available.

Because the garbage and recycling bins will now be collected by separate vehicles and the runs have changed, residents are urged to place their bins out prior to 6am on their pick-up day, Dr Molloy said.