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  3. Environment protection
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  5. Waste exports

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Waste exports

In March 2020, the Australian, state and territory governments, and the Australian Local Government Association, as members of the former Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed that the export of waste glass, plastic (including processed engineered fuel), tyres and paper be regulated by the Australian government.

We regulate the export of certain waste from Australia under the Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020.

Each type of waste will have its own rules. When the rules start, you will only be able to export your waste if it meets the requirements of the relevant rules. You will also need to:

  • hold a waste export licence for the waste type
  • declare each consignment to us as well as the Australian Border Force.

Regulated waste

Glass

We have regulated the export of waste glass since 1 January 2021.

Find out more about exporting glass waste.

Plastic

We have regulated the export of waste plastic since 1 July 2021.

Find out more about exporting plastic waste.

Tyres

We have regulated the export of waste tyres since 1 December 2021.

Find out more about exporting tyres waste.

Paper and cardboard

We will start to regulate waste paper and cardboard on 1 July 2024. From this date, you will only be able to export paper and cardboard that is processed or sorted to specific requirements.

Hazardous waste

Separate requirements apply for the export of hazardous waste.

Check the export requirements for hazardous waste.

How the regulations affect Australia

By ensuring we only export properly processed waste glass, plastic, tyres and paper, we are preventing these materials from being dumped overseas, reducing harm to the environment and human health.

We are also building our capacity to turn these waste materials into high-value, recycled commodities in Australia. This will:

  • create jobs
  • build a more sophisticated industry
  • have positive outcomes for the environment and community wellbeing in Australia and overseas.

We are investing $190 million in the Recycling Modernisation Fund. These funds will help transform Australia’s waste and recycling capacity.

Find out how we are partnering with state and territory government to deliver these funds.

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Last updated: 22 March 2022

© Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment

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.