Australia’s transition to a circular economy is more than an environmental goal – it’s a chance to secure our unique natural heritage for future generations while growing the economy and reaching net zero.

This report outlines the key steps the Australian Government must take to accelerate this transition. It makes 14 core recommendations and 12 supporting sector-specific recommendations for the built environment, food and agriculture, resources and water.

The primary recommendation is to establish a new National Circular Economy Policy Framework to provide an overarching guide for Australia’s transition, galvanising action from industry, governments and researchers around a set of targets and priorities that are right for Australia.

The report also recommends introducing a Circular Economy Act to help meet the goals of the national policy framework. The Act would provide the government with a clear, adaptable and predictable regulatory framework to lift the environmental performance of products entering the economy. Better standards for durable, repairable product design will drive innovation and support business leadership. Improved labelling will empower informed circular choices, while a stronger mandatory product stewardship framework will catalyse action across supply chains.