The Australian tyre industry, and its challenges and opportunities in the circular economy, will be the focus of a new inquiry by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Innovation and Science.
Australia generates more than 67 million end-of-life tyres each year, with many ending up in landfill, stockpiles, or exported without adequate oversight.
A key focus for the Committee will be the development of high-value uses for tyre-derived materials, including tyre designs, recycling processes and alternative materials.
The inquiry will also consider product stewardship schemes, infrastructure needs, regulatory settings, and environmental and community impacts.
Committee Chair, Rob Mitchell MP, said ‘It’s time for the rubber to hit the road!
“We want to understand the full lifecycle of a tyre, and how circular economy practices in reuse, retreading and resource recovery can be improved,” he said.
“We are seeking input from all parts of the sector, from manufacturers and recyclers to researchers and community organisations.
“This is a critical part of our economy with huge potential for innovation. We want to hear about how the Australian Government can support the tyre industry to become more sustainable into the future.”
Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) has applauded the move, stating the inquiry is a crucial step towards unlocking the $70 million in domestic market opportunities available through a strengthened circular economy for tyres.
On its website, TSA states the inquiry announcement is particularly welcome after the recent Round Trip Summit in Melbourne, which brought together more than 200 industry participants from around the world to discuss proven technologies and infrastructure pathways for end-of-life tyres.
The Summit demonstrated strong industry support for reinforcing domestic markets and highlighted the urgent need to redirect end-of-life tyres back into the Australian economy, reducing reliance on offshore markets and creating local value.
A comprehensive approach to the full tyre lifecycle – from design through to recycling and market development – aligns with global best practices for managing chemicals of concern, promoting reuse and retreading, and preparing industry for higher-order circular economy outcomes.
The Committee invites written submissions addressing the inquiry terms of reference by Friday, 23 January 2026.
For more information, visit: www.aph.gov.au
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