The Andrews Labor Government is taking the next step towards developing a circular economy that maximises the reuse of materials and reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill.

Victorians have an opportunity to help make Victoria’s recycling system more resilient and sustainable with the release of an issues paper on the Circular Economy Policy for public comment today.

The implementation of a Circular Economy Policy will deliver new opportunities for industry and more jobs in Victoria.

Through the Policy, Victoria will transition from the traditional linear model of consumption to a circular model that continually seeks to minimise the use of natural resources.

The Policy will build on the Government’s continued investment in the waste and resource recovery initiatives and responds to global recycling challenges.

The Victorian Budget 2019/20 is investing $35 million to strengthen and diversify Victoria’s waste and recycling industry.

This latest package builds on the $37 million Recycling Industry Strategic Plan – bringing the Labor Government’s investment in the waste and resource recovery industry to more than $135 million.

The Circular Economy Policy issues paper is open for consultation until 2 August 2019 at engage.vic.gov.au/circulareconomy.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re transforming the way we think about waste and resource recovery – developing a circular economy will deliver better environmental, social and economic results for Victoria.”

“A circular economy will not only improve Victoria’s waste and recycling systems – it will support local businesses and create local jobs here in Victoria.

“I encourage Victorians to have their say on this important issue as we work towards a final policy in 2020.”