Despite recent efforts, Australia's progress towards a more circular economy has been slow. This interim report highlights the ways in which Australians are using materials more sustainably and efficiently and the barriers that are limiting them. It identifies priority opportunities in six sectors: the built environment, food and agriculture, textiles and clothing, mining, vehicles, electronics; as well as cross-cutting policy issues. 

Key points

• A circular economy aims to use materials and products more sustainably and efficiently, with economic, environmental and social benefits.
• Despite some uptake of circular economy opportunities in Australia, progress has been slow.
• Updating regulations to level the playing field for newer or less widespread technologies and capabilities would support the uptake of circular activities.
• Governments can facilitate coordination and innovation diffusion by supporting information exchange platforms, adopting challenge-based innovation funding models, brokering businesses' engagement with regulatory processes, and leveraging sustainable procurement policies and place-based initiatives.
• More information would enable better decisions about circular opportunities.

Further information is being sought on the reform directions (the potential policy changes being considered) and each of the six sectors. 

Submissions close Friday 11 April 2025.