In 2024, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) established an independent National Design Standard Working Group.
The Group developed a Design for Kerbside Recyclability Grading Framework (the Framework). The Framework encourages best practice design while allowing packaging to perform essential functions.
The Design for Kerbside Recyclability Grading Framework is available for download and review.
DCCEEW will open a consultation to seek stakeholder views on the Framework in early 2025.
The Framework is based on best practice and can be updated over time. The Framework shows how recyclable different packaging materials are, based on
- the availability of collection
- sortation
- recycling and reprocessing services
- and end markets.
Further work is needed in 2025 to evaluate additional packaging types and alternative collection pathways. The department will engage with stakeholders on this work.
The proposed Framework does not represent a decision on regulation. Design is one tool to improve circularity.
DCCEEW are also considering other mechanisms. These include:
- reduction and reuse.
- removing harmful chemicals from packaging.
- increasing the amount of recycled content to help drive domestic end markets.
- consumer and business education.
https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/waste/packaging/reforming-packaging-regulation