Dozens of landfill sites across regional NSW will be modernised, closed or improved following a $5.9 million investment to upgrade waste infrastructure and reduce environmental risks.
With Greater Sydney expected to run out of landfill space by 2030, investing in smarter, more coordinated waste infrastructure is critical for both metropolitan and regional areas.
Thirty-five projects have been successful under the Round 5 of the Landfill Consolidation and Environmental Improvement Program, which helps councils upgrade outdated waste sites.
NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Executive Director of Programs & Innovation, Alexandra Geddes, said the program targets long-standing challenges such as illegal dumping, contamination, odour and dust.
"It supports councils to bring their operations in line with environmental standards and transition to cleaner, safer and more sustainable waste systems," Ms Geddes said.
"14 high-risk regional landfills can now be closed and rehabilitated, and 13 new transfer stations will be designed, upgraded or built to increase recycling.
"These projects are about protecting our communities, giving councils the tools to manage waste more effectively and meeting updated environmental standards.
"Regional and remote areas face unique waste challenges, and this funding will deliver practical improvements from the Northern Rivers to the Murray region."
Projects in areas like Dubbo, Armidale and Lismore include sealing unlined landfills that are ready to be closed, enhancing transfer station operations and commissioning expert advice to guide future waste planning. These changes are expected to reduce pollution, protect public health and deliver modernised local waste services to residents.
In a further boost, the Joint Procurement Funded Support Program has opened to help councils and regional waste groups collaborate on cost-effective waste and recycling solutions.
Ms Geddes said the initiative adds another layer of assistance.
"This opportunity ensures councils can collaborate, cut costs and plan for a cleaner, more circular economy," she added.
"Upgrading infrastructure and investing in regional collaboration is not just important, it's urgent. This is part of the long-term solution we need across NSW."
Up to $500,000 per project is available to support shared planning and procurement of new services and infrastructure. Applications are open until June 2027, or until funding is allocated.
