We recently took part in Operation Demeter XI. This a global operation targeting illegal waste shipments.
More than 110 customs administrations and partner organisations joined the operation. This included INTERPOL and Europol. The World Customs Organization coordinates the operation.
The Australian Border Force (ABF) led operational activities in Australia. Our Compliance and Enforcement Branch supported this work.
Inspectors found several regulated waste items, including:
- waste tyres
- solar panels
- inverters
- batteries
- other items.
Many exporters did not have a waste export permit, licence or exemption.
These items are regulated under Australian waste laws, including the:
- Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020
- Hazardous Waste (Regulation of Exports and Imports) Act 1989.
These laws require a permit, licence or exemption before waste can be exported or imported.
The operation also showed the need for better recycling pathways for end-of-life solar panels. By 2035, Australia is expected to generate around one million tonnes of solar panel waste.
Stopping unlawful exports helps ensure these materials are managed responsibly. It also supports recycling and Australia's transition to a circular economy.
Key outcomes of Operation Demeter XI include:
- 36 targeted border profile alerts triggered
- 10 exports (total 11 shipping containers) inspected at the border
- 2 directions, issued under the Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020
- 10 education and information letters sent to exporters.
We are also considering further action on several exports that did not meet waste export rules.
We take compliance seriously and will act on breaches of waste export laws. This may include investigations and enforcement actions.
