Federal Packaging Reform, National Single-Use Plastics (SUP) Harmonisation Workplan, NSW Organic Collection & Food Donation Reporting Updates

25 February 2025

Background  

Following last week’s member brief on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) release of the draft Kerbside Recyclability Grading Framework, several key updates have been released on the packaging reform, together with NSW Organic Collections & Food Donation Reporting.

Federal Packaging Reform: Consultation Outcomes

DCCEEW has published key findings from last year’s consultation, shaping the next phase of Australia’s packaging reform. The department is now reviewing feedback to guide the transition to a circular packaging economy.  

Summary:

Over 80% of respondents favoured Commonwealth regulation of packaging, with 65% supporting Option 3—an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme with mandatory requirements.

Initial support for Option 3 was 55%, rising to 65% when including those who selected ‘other’ or preferred a hybrid model.

Read more >>

National Single-Use Plastics (SUP) Harmonisation Workplan Released

Governments have committed to a national workplan to harmonise single-use plastics (SUP) policies across Australia. This initiative aims to bring consistency to regulations nationwide, which AFGC has long advocated for.

More details >>

NSW Mandates Organic Collection & Food Donation Reporting

The NSW Parliament has passed a Bill requiring organic waste collection and food donation reporting. The NSW EPA has released further details, including the next steps for businesses and stakeholders.

Learn more >>  

Reminder Consultation Open: Kerbside Recyclability Grading Framework

The Draft Kerbside Recyclability Grading Framework is now open for consultation. Given its technical nature, businesses are encouraged to have packaging specialists review it.
Consultation closes on 18 April 2025.

More details >> 

Input from members is requested by 1 April 2025.