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Department of Climate Change, Energy, Enviroment and Water

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  1. Home
  2. Environment
  3. Environment protection
  4. Waste and recycling

Sidebar first - EN - Protection

  • Environment protection
    • NPI
      • About the NPI
        • Development of the NPI NEPM
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    • Waste and recycling
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        • Waste and Resource Recovery Data Hub
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    • Ozone and synthetic greenhouse gases
      • The OPSGG Program
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      • Import and export licences
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          • Frequently asked questions
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        • Essential Uses Licences
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      • Methyl bromide
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      • National Halon Bank
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        • History and achievements
        • Technology and process
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    • Hazardous waste
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        • Exporting or importing used lead acid batteries
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    • Used oil recycling
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      • Recycling your oil
        • Uses for recycled oil
        • Why we should recycle used motor oil
    • Circular Economy
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Waste and recycling

The way we manage waste in Australia is changing.

We all throw items in the bin or recycling bin – often without a second thought. What we throw away impacts our environment and economy.

Glass, plastic, paper, cardboard, tyres, electronics, batteries, construction materials, food and garden waste are all waste items containing value in the form of energy and resources. We are working to maximize that value.

All levels of governments and industry are working together to manage our waste, convert it to resources, and protect our environment. Our waste is our responsibility.

What's new

Exporters of waste tyres will need a licence to export from 1 December 2021.

  • Read our guide for waste tyre exporters

Labelling for products made with local recycled content

  • Read more about a brand for Australian made recycled content products
Regulated Waste

Processed waste exports

We will start to regulate waste exports from 1 January 2021. See when laws come into effect.

Regulated Waste

Hazardous waste

We regulate the export, import and transit of hazardous waste. Check what you must do.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and the circular economy

Circular Economy

Product stewardship

We work with industry and governments to manage products from the beginning to their end of life.

Circular Economy

Recycling Modernisation Fund

We are investing in Australia's waste and recycling infrastructure. We will co-fund upgrades to recycling facilities.

Circular Economy

Drop off your e-waste recycling

You can dispose of your TV, computer, printer and other electronic parts.

Circular Economy

Food waste

Find out how to manage your food waste.

Circular Economy

Australasian recycling label

The label provides simple recycling information. It helps you to put packaging in the right bin.

Circular Economy

Plastics and packaging

Our target is for 100% of Australian packaging to be recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2025.

Circular Economy

Sustainable procurement

See the steps you can take to choose sustainable goods and services.

Circular Economy

Sustainable procurement guide

Read the guide for more detailed steps, tools and case studies.

News and Media

Image of used tyres

Audits to verify industry compliance with waste export regulation

  • Media release
  • Waste
24 March 2023
Garbage dump

NTCRS co-regulatory arrangements annual reports for 2020-21

  • News
  • Waste
31 March 2022

Exporters encouraged to apply for licences for tyres

  • Media release
  • Waste
02 November 2021
All news and media

Waste exports portal

Access the Waste Export Licensing and Declaration (WELD) portal now.

E-waste drop off

  • Find a drop-off location near you

Our media releases

  • Budget 2020-21—Protecting and preserving Australia's environment(link is external)
  • Australia's first national battery recycling scheme(link is external)

Related information

  • Chemical assessments
  • Chemicals management
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Last updated: 17 November 2022

© Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.