The Andrews Labor Government is creating local jobs while reducing waste, increasing recycling and uncovering new economic opportunities.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced over $630,000 will be shared between 30 , helping investigate projects that divert waste from landfill, boost local circular economies and reduce costs by uncovering new methods for recycling materials.

Reuse Shops, new organics processing facilities and construction materials made of recycled materials are just some of the many innovations being proposed by councils.

Almost half the projects to receive funding will see councils working together to amplify their impact.

Six regional councils will work together to recirculate materials into existing Central Victorian industries and identify key unmet economic opportunities in the region.

Nine inner-city Melbourne councils will create a business case for a shared organics processing facility, to path the way for new compost collection services. The councils have also received funding to develop a business case for a glass recycling facility.

The City of Casey will work alongside RMIT and not-for-profit organisation Circular Economy Victoria on a feasibility study into local substitutes for polystyrene waffle pods, commonly used in building and construction. Working with local developers and builders, the project will test waffle pod alternatives made from recycled material.

Nillumbik Council will investigate establishing a ‘Library of Things’ where local resident could borrow items such as tools, audio-visual equipment, electronics, kitchen items, musical instruments, sporting and camping gear and gardening tools.

The Labor Government is investing a record $515 million, delivering once-in-a-generation change to the state’s waste and recycling system.

More information is available at www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/grants-funding-and-investment/funded-grants/recycling-victoria-councils-fund-grants

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re supporting local councils with new ideas on how we can cut back waste, protecting the environment and creating local jobs.”

“We’ve invested more than ever before in our state’s waste and recycling system and we’re working together to provide practical solutions that will benefit more communities and residents.”

Recycling Victoria Councils Fund – successful grants May 2022

• Brimbank City Council – $20,000
• Melbourne City Council with project partners City of Stonnington, City of Port Phillip, City of Yarra, City of Darebin, City of Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, City of Moreland, City of Moonee Valley – $80,000
• Melbourne City Council with project partners City of Stonnington, City of Port Phillip, City of Yarra, City of Darebin, City of Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, City of Moreland, City of Moonee Valley – $20,000
• Nillumbik Shire Council – $18,000
• Greater Bendigo City Council with project partners, Buloke Shire, Gannawarra Shire, Swan Hill Rural City Council, Mt Alexander Shire, Mildura Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire – $80,000
• Knox City Council with project partners City of Stonnington, Yarra Ranges Shire Council, Maroondah City Council, City of Maribyrnong, City of Whitehorse – $80,000
• Casey City Council – $20,000
• Boroondara City Council with project partners Melbourne City Council, Stonnington City Council – $45,000
• Mansfield Shire Council with partners Mt Buller / Mt Stirling Alpine Resort Management Board; Murrindindi Shire Council – $40,000
• City of Whittlesea – $20,000
• Moorabool Shire Council – $20,000
• Stonnington City Council with project partner City of Boroondara – $40,000
• Boroondara City Council – $20,000
• Stonnington City Council – $20,000
• Melton City Council – $20,000
• Moonee Valley City Council with project partner Melton City – $15,000
• Alpine Shire Council – $20,000