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 markets for recycled products.

In preparation of the waste export bans entering into full effect in July 2024 and supporting the targets of the National Waste Policy Action Plan, the Queensland and Australian Governments have each contributed $20 million to create the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund (QRMF). The Queensland Government is now calling on public or private companies, local governments, and not-for-profits to apply for funding.

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. Projects will need to be delivered by 30 June 2024.

What kind of projects are eligible for QRMF funding?

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 are invited to apply.

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.

The Queensland Government is interested in projects that facilitate waste avoidance, landfill diversion (including stockpile diversion/reduction) and recycling activities. QRMF will focus on attracting private sector investment in new infrastructure, particularly for the sorting, processing and remanufacture of waste plastic, paper and cardboard, tyres, and glass. 

Other areas of interest include projects that create economic development opportunities, will build a stronger onshore recycling industry by developing new domestic markets for recycled materials and that will create jobs particularly in regional areas.

How do I apply?

Submit an application before 7 September 2021. Ensure you read the program guidelines thoroughly before applying.