Council has deferred committing to the introduction of a kerbside glass recycling service and will continue to lobby the Victorian Government for greater flexibility, amid concerns of inefficiencies and significant costs to councils and the community.
Victorian Government reforms require all councils to provide households with a glass-only bin service by 1 July 2027 as part of a four-stream household waste and recycling system. If implemented, Greater Geelong residents will receive a new purple 120-litre glass bin to be collected every four weeks.
Since 2024, the City has been part of the Glass Advocacy Group, an alliance of more than 30 councils led by Maroondah City Council, calling for more flexibility in the glass collection service and advocating for alternatives such as expanding the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS).
Postponing the rollout would give councils more time to work with the Victorian Government to find a solution that maximises recycling outcomes while minimising financial impacts on local communities.
The cost of introducing a fourth kerbside bin in Greater Geelong is estimated at $8.6 million, with ongoing annual operating costs of about $5.4 million.
The Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021 requires councils to deliver four core services: general waste, mixed recycling, glass recycling, and food/organics recycling. The reforms also established Recycling Victoria (RV) as the new regulator.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
We are asking the Victorian Government to listen to our concerns and delay the mandatory start date for the glass bin service.As one of Australia's fastest growing regions, it's critical we manage our waste sustainably and make sure services are efficient and cost-effective.
We need a tailored approach that meets the needs and expectations of our community.
Expanding the already successful CDS program could deliver the same environmental benefits as kerbside glass collection, but at a lower cost to both councils and the community.
Environment and Circular Economy portfolio chair Councillor Elise Wilkinson
Managing waste is a core responsibility of councils, but one size doesn't fit all.We must make sure any new service is designed to meet community needs, avoids duplication, and provides genuine environmental benefits.
Alongside other councils, we will continue to call on the Victorian Government for reforms that achieve the best outcomes for our community and the environment.
