Joint media statement - Multi-million dollar boost for WA's Waste and Recycling infrastructure

More than $30 million is now available to boost recycling and waste infrastructure as part of a joint funding scheme by the Australian and Western Australian Labor Governments.

The second round of the Western Australian Recycling Modernisation Fund will provide successful recipients a share in up to $30.75 million to build, expand or upgrade waste processing infrastructure. This will support the phase out of exporting certain types of waste plastics, tyres, mixed paper and cardboard.

Up to $5 million worth of industrial zoned land is also on offer.

The funding will be invested in projects which increase the recovery of materials that can be reused or recycled as well as improve the capacity for sorting, processing and manufacturing of materials affected by waste export bans.

The WA Government and Commonwealth will contribute a maximum of two-thirds of the project costs, with applicants required to fund at least one third.

The Western Australian Recycling Modernisation Fund is investing $70 million in grant funding to address critical infrastructure gaps in the State's waste management.

Applications close 4pm on Friday 13 October 2023. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit:https://www.wa.gov.au/service/environment/environment-information-services/recycling-modernisation-fund

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Hon Tanya Plibersek MP:

"Boosting recycling isn't just good for the environment, it's good for jobs – for every one job in landfill there are three jobs in recycling.

"We know people want to do the right thing and recycle their waste, but the reality is there aren't the facilities to do it.

"This funding will support new recycling infrastructure and help WA communities recycle more.

"We want to better protect nature for our kids and grandkids – and that takes all levels of Government working together.

"Investment in recycling is great for nature and great for jobs."

Quotes attributable to Western Australian Minister for the Environment, Reece Whitby:

"Western Australian businesses are embracing waste as a valuable resource that can create jobs, spark innovation and deliver strong environmental outcomes.

"This is a significant investment to transform WA's waste and recycling industry, helping address critical infrastructure gaps while supporting the waste export bans.

"I encourage businesses to apply for this funding to improve Western Australia's ability to process and recycle waste, and help create a low-waste, sustainable State.