The McGowan Government is seeking community feedback on the proposed legislative framework for waste-derived materials.
The proposed framework will encourage use of fit-for-purpose waste-derived materials and support Western Australia's move to a circular economy.
Currently waste-derived materials cannot be used for purposes such as fill without potentially creating landfill levy obligations or triggering licensing requirements.
The reforms will allow use of waste-derived materials without triggering these obligations.
The framework is most relevant to producers and users of waste-derived materials deposited to land in quantities above the licensing thresholds prescribed in Schedule 1 to the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987.
Public consultation on the proposed framework will give stakeholders an opportunity to have their say on the framework and proposed changes to the Environmental Protection Act 1986, Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2007 and Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Levy Act 2007.
The consultation process is seeking stakeholder input about issues, concerns and opportunities, and information on any potential impacts on businesses, the community and government.
To review the discussion paper 'Waste not, want not - Valuing waste as a resource - Proposed legislative framework for waste-derived materials' and for information about submissions, visit https://consult.dwer.wa.gov.au/waste-policy/waste-not-want-not/
As stated by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The Western Australian Government is committed to waste avoidance, recovering more value and resources from waste, and protecting the environment by managing waste responsibly.
"Implementation of the waste-derived materials framework will support the objectives of the Waste Strategy 2030 by encouraging the use of waste-derived materials to build confidence in recycled products, increase demand for them and develop relevant markets while protecting the environment.
"I strongly encourage everyone with an interest to provide feedback to help shape the proposed legislative framework for waste-derived materials."
