Published on 06 October 2026
Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is ready to deliver the next round of its popular Free Plant Voucher Program, with 16,000 plants available for residents to collect during the October and November giveaway. The Program gives residents the opportunity to collect two free plants to grow in their private garden or donate to a community group, helping add colour, shade and greenery across the Toowoomba Region. TRC Environment and Community portfolio spokesperson Cr Tim McMahon said Council was pleased to again support residents to enhance their gardens and contribute to the Region’s liveability. “This program is a practical and much-loved way for residents to bring more plants into their homes, gardens and community spaces,” Cr McMahon said. “Whether people are creating habitat for wildlife, increasing shade, improving their garden or simply adding more greenery to their property, every plant contributes to a greener and more liveable Region.” Vouchers are sent with general rates notices, or if residents receive their rates notice by email, they will find their voucher included as an additional page in their PDF attachment. Due to Councils’ Charlton facility falling within the Fire Ant Biosecurity Zone, plants distributed through this round of the program have undergone treatment prior to distribution. As a precautionary and compliance measure, plants distributed through the Free Plant Giveaway Program must be treated by APVMA permit 13959 or 14317 under the Biosecurity Act and State regulations before they are collected. Cr McMahon said the treatment was a standard regulatory requirement for plants moving from within the Fire Ant Biosecurity Zone and would help the program proceed responsibly. “The treatment is being undertaken to meet State biosecurity requirements and to support the safe movement of plants,” Cr McMahon said. “Residents can continue to collect and enjoy their free plants as usual, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of this fantastic community program." Council offers a wide range of native and exotic plants for residents to choose from, with plant types subject to availability at the time of collection. Collection points include Crows Nest Community Nursery in Depot Street, Highfields at Peacehaven Botanic Park in Kuhls Road, Yarraman depot in Barr Smith Street, Goombungee Service Centre in Mocatta Street, Pittsworth Town Hall courtyard area and Charlton in Kuhrt Court. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for their voucher and take the opportunity to collect their free plants during the October and November giveaway. Anyone whose voucher does not arrive can contact Council on 131 872 to arrange one.