The Victorian Government is fast-tracking the development of regional and rural recycling infrastructure, as it works to streamline kerbside recycling across the state.
Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio yesterday announced $20 million to support rural and regional councils as they work towards a four bin, or four service, recycling system that separates household waste into rubbish, recycling, glass and green waste.
“Councils will use the funding to upgrade recycling transfer stations and drop-off points for separated glass and organics, as we set up the new four stream household waste recycling service across the state,” D’Ambrosio said.
“This will both keep jobs in the local regional community, while also reducing the amount of waste that travels to metro Melbourne for sorting.”
According to D’Ambrosio, the funding will stimulate local economies, while putting the needs of rural and regional communities at the forefront of statewide reforms to Victoria’s recycling system.
“Our recycling reforms mean that every household can do their bit reducing waste and making sure that recycling is a part of daily life,” she said.
“We know every council works a bit differently and has a unique community. That’s why this funding recognises that there isn’t a one-size fits all recycling solution for rural and regional councils across Victoria.”
D’Ambrosio added that a consistent statewide approach to the separation of waste in Victorian households will significantly increase the quality of recycled material and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.
“Reform of household recycling across the state is a key initiative of Recycling Victoria – A New Economy, our plan to transform the waste and recycling system,” she said.
“The Victorian Government has so far invested $515 million to deliver these once in a generation reforms and build Victoria’s circular economy.
“In partnership with local councils, the state government will deliver a recycling system the communities can rely on through better household recycling, improved infrastructure, and stronger industry regulation.”
The funding, which is available until 26 March, is open to 48 rural and regional councils.
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