AUSTRALIA | The AFGC has welcomed government progress towards implementing clear, integrated and consistent changes to packaging across Australia.
The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) was encouraged by the Commonwealth’s commitment to consult with all levels of government and industry in early 2025 on new packaging design guidance to improve recyclability.
Introducing uniform recycling system design standards will address inconsistencies and fragmentation in how the recycling system is regulated nationwide. The body will review the proposed plan's details to ensure it minimises unintended consequences, such as increased food or product waste.
“Australia is embarking on a seismic transformation of packaging. While we welcome consultation on design standards, we need greater clarity on what these standards will mean for industry and the environment,” said AFGC CEO Tanya Barden.
Food and grocery manufacturers have committed to advancing circularity and urged the government to consider the entire supply chain and the full lifecycle of packaging materials.
Changes to sustainable packaging design have required research and development to ensure consumer safety and maintain product quality and life. They also required changes to manufacturing capital equipment, such as packaging lines.
Therefore, the AFGC has encouraged the government to collaborate closely with industry on transition timeframes, grant programs and tax incentives to support the industry’s move to a circular economy amid cost-of-living pressures.
“We can achieve an improved packaging system more rapidly with greater clarity, national consistency and partnership with government. To position Australia as a global leader in circularity and sustainability, all states, government bodies, and industry players must work in unison.”
The AFGC looked forward to continued collaboration throughout the consultation process.
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