More than 50 new and upgraded recycling infrastructure projects across Australia have now been completed under the Government's Recycling Modernisation Fund.
The milestone means an estimated additional 500,000 tonnes of plastic, glass, tyres, paper and cardboard can be diverted from landfill each year.
The Recycling Modernisation Fund (RMF) is supporting States and Territories in a one-off boost to Australia's capacity to sort, process and remanufacture.
This increased recycling capacity allows more products to be reused, recycled or remanufactured when they are no longer useful or required for their initial purpose.
It also creates more jobs.
Minister for the Environment Murray Watt said the Recycling Modernisation Fund (RMF) was an important part of the Albanese Government's efforts to increase Australia's recycling capacity and build a circular economy.
"Today is World Environment Day, and this year's theme is 'beat plastic pollution' which is an absolute priority for the Albanese Government," Minister Watt said.
"Australians consume around 3.9 million tonnes of plastic per year. We know Australians want to reduce their waste and help protect the environment for future generations and we are supporting this through real investment in recycling infrastructure.
"Importantly, more than half of these projects support solutions for plastics, including solutions for plastics that are hard to recycle, such as soft plastics.
"These projects are just the beginning, with more than 80 in the pipeline thanks to an over $200 million investment from the Government.
"When combined with co-investment from all states and industry, the RMF will give a $1 billion boost to Australian recycling.
"Every day, but particularly on World Environment Day, we recognise Australia's spectacular natural landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and our obligation to protect it."
To find out which RMF funded projects are completed or underway in your area visit the new interactive map available here.
