Better Recycling is on its Way

Published on 30 January 2024

The Victorian Government recently announced the Recycling Victoria: A New Economy policy.

This policy is aimed at enhancing recycling practices across the state and marks a significant step forward in our commitment to building a sustainable future for all Victorians. As part of this ambitious plan, all Victorian households will gain access to services for separated glass recycling by 2027 and Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) by 2030.

In the initial phase of implementing this transformative policy, the Rural City of Wangaratta has already witnessed the introduction of key services to assist residents in separating glass from existing commingled kerbside collection (yellow bin). Council has launched new glass drop-off facilities at all transfer stations, providing residents with convenient options for responsible disposal.

Furthermore, the state government has introduced a container deposit scheme (CDS) to incentivise recycling efforts. Launched in November 2023, the CDS offers a 10-cent refund for every eligible can, carton, or bottle returned to the Exchange Depot located at 74 Newman St, Wangaratta. Residents also have the opportunity to donate their refunds to local charities or community groups registered as donation partners with the scheme.

Most aluminium, glass, plastic, and liquid paperboard (carton) drink containers between 150mL and 3 litres are eligible under the scheme. Residents are encouraged to look for the 10-cent mark on drink container labels, typically located near the barcode.

The second phase of this initiative will see the introduction of separated glass kerbside collection in the municipality of Wangaratta. This service will be guided by the Victorian Government's kerbside collection service standards framework, which will outline the required extent of service for all Councils across Victoria. The State Government is committed to releasing this framework in early 2024, with the rollout of the kerbside service expected to commence in mid-2024.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the reform, these new services align with the community's aspirations for a circular economy, where waste and pollution are minimised, and materials are kept in circulation at their highest value. Recent community surveys have highlighted strong support for sustainable practices, and Recycling Victoria: A New Economy is a provides a pathway to a cleaner, greener future.

"I am thrilled to see the implementation of the Recycling Victoria: A New Economy policy in our community. Together, we can make a tangible difference in building a sustainable future for generations to come. I urge every resident to get involved in these initiatives, whether it's by separating glass for recycling or returning eligible containers through the container deposit scheme. Every small effort counts towards creating a cleaner, greener Wangaratta!" Said Jack Herry, Rural City of Wangaratta Councillor