Plastic Waste

Comer acknowledged the importance of the issue and the government’s shared goals of reducing waste and protecting the environment. Comer highlighted the government’s investment of over $200 million in the Recycling Modernisation Fund, which supports 61 plastic recycling plants projected to prevent more than 300,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year. Comer emphasised the need for practical, evidence-based solutions and noted ongoing industry-led trials for soft plastic collection in over 700 stores. Comer stated that the government is dedicated to increasing Australia’s circularity two-fold by 2035 through collaboration with states, territories, and industry.

Chaney supported the motion, citing data that Australians recycle only 14 per cent of plastic waste while consuming around 147 kilograms per person annually. Chaney pointed to the success of container deposit schemes as proof that producer responsibility models work, arguing that similar principles should apply to all plastic packaging. Chaney outlined a plan for a mandatory, national harmonised scheme with binding targets and a producer-funded soft plastics component. Chaney warned that delaying action could miss a rare window of alignment between industry, community, and environmental groups, and stressed the need for policy certainty to support the recycling industry.

Laxale thanked Scamps for raising the issue and affirmed the government’s commitment to building a homegrown recycling industry through the Recycling Modernisation Fund. Laxale argued that while voluntary schemes have limitations, the timing of reforms must consider current market conditions, such as high virgin plastic resin prices. Laxale cautioned against rushing a national soft plastics scheme to avoid a repeat of previous failures like REDcycle, emphasising the need for industry and local government input. Laxale stated that the government is continuing consultations and statutory reviews to ensure reforms are effective and sustainable.

Penfold supported the introduction of an EPR scheme, framing it as an economic and regional development issue as well as an environmental one. Penfold highlighted the iQRenew facility in Kundle Kundle, which processes soft plastics into recycled resin for Australian manufacturers, as an example of regional capability. Penfold argued that the facility’s future is uncertain without policy certainty and a national EPR scheme to provide clear signals for investment. Penfold criticised the government for prolonged consultation without decisive action, stating that businesses and regional communities are ready to proceed but lack the necessary regulatory framework.