APCO Fee Model Consultation – Have Your Say
10 April 2025
Overview
The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has released its consultation paper on a proposed fee model for industry-led Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). The model aims to drive improved recovery, recycling and end-market development for packaging in Australia.
While the industry has made strong voluntary progress, Australia’s National Packaging Targets (NPTs) remain out of reach. APCO’s 2023 Review identified persistent economic barriers—particularly in collection, sorting and processing—that are limiting progress.
Why it matters
To address these gaps, APCO proposes a shift to an EPR approach supported by a new two-part member fee structure. They aim to enable strategic investment in infrastructure, education and system-wide improvements. The proposed model outlines significant changes to how packaging sustainability is funded and delivered. It includes:
A new two-part fee model from FY27:
- Base fee calculated on member turnover
- EPR fee based on packaging type and tonnes placed on market
APCO consultation webpage provides further details for members to review.
Information sessions
Sessions will be held across key cities and online. These provide valuable insight into the proposal and its implications for brand owners.
Registration information for these sessions can be found here.
Consultation timeline
The consultation is open until 16th May 2025.
Next steps
AFGC encourages all Members to review the Consultation Paper and attend an information session. Your input will help shape a fee model that supports a circular packaging economy and reflects industry expectations.
The AFGC will develop a submission for this consultation and request that all members provide feedback by 5th May 2025 to Sarah Collier, Director – Sustainability (sarah.collier@afgc.org.au).
Please reach out to the AFGC team if you require any support or clarification.
Sarah Collier
Director – Sustainability
