In late 2019, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed to transform Australia’s waste and recycling industry, banning the export of unprocessed waste plastic, paper, glass and tyres while building Australia’s capacity to generate high value recycled commodities and associated demand.
In response to this decision, the Australian Government, states and territories agreed to jointly invest in recycling infrastructure to help build processing capacity and markets for recycled products.
Through a National Partnership Agreement (NPA) between the Queensland and Australian Governments, $40 million is being invested in a new Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund (QRMF) to boost Queensland’s recycling industry. This investment comprises $20 million from the Australian Government and $20 million in co-funding from the Queensland Government.
The fund supports National Waste Policy Action Plan targets, Queensland’s waste diversion targets and the national ban on waste exports, commencing January 2021 through to July 2024.
Allocation of QRMF funds to Queensland projects is being administered by the Queensland Government, as part of its commitment under the NPA.
Funding will be invested in projects that improve sorting, processing, recycling or remanufacturing of waste and divert waste plastic, paper and cardboard, tyres or glass from landfill.
Applications are now open
Applications are now invited from public or private companies, local governments and not-for-profits looking to use proven resource recovery technologies to improve existing operations or bring significant new facilities to Queensland.
Applications should focus on how recycling projects can or will:
- improve sorting, process, recycling and remanufacturing of waste
- divert waste from landfill (including stockpile diversion/reduction)
- create jobs, especially development opportunities in regional areas
- create economic development opportunities
- build a stronger onshore recycling industry by developing new domestic markets for recycled materials
- address Queensland’s regional and remote challenges, where possible.
Projects funded from the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund need to be delivered by 30 June 2024.
How to submit an application
- Read the applicant guidelines (PDF, 1 MB).
- Read the below frequently asked questions.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your application, including your supporting documents by 7 September 2021.
Applications close: 5 pm Tuesday 7 September 2021.
Visit: https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/industry/priority-industries/resource-recovery/queensland-recycling-modernisation-fund