This report outlines evidence that Australia's federal policy framework on waste reduction and recycling has failed to achieve its objectives. Australia has not moved beyond ineffective voluntary or industry-regulated national schemes to implement binding product steward ship or 'extended producer responsibility' for different waste streams. 

The report highlights resistance to regulation from big producers of waste such as plastics and a lack of leadership and culture at a Commonwealth Government level to drive change. However, there is considerable support from the recycling/resource recovery/waste management industry for mandated product stewardship schemes, and also for the first time, some support from organisations historically opposed to federally mandated regulations. 

Key recommendations

• Implement a full circular economy framework aimed at effectively supporting Australia's waste management and resource recovery sectors, and improving environmental and economic outcomes.
• Examine the role of economic settings and financial incentives (including levies and subsidies) in driving circular economy outcomes.
• Establish a cross-jurisdictional circular economy action taskforce to oversee harmonised waste prevention and recycling practices across Australia.
• Implement ambitious producer-funded mandatory national product stewardship schemes, packaging design requirements and rules, with mechanisms to drive demand for recycled materials.