Delays in Design Rules and Reform Around the Scheme

Sen Peter Whish-Wilson questioned Cameron Hutchison about delays in design rules and reform around the scheme, with Hutchison citing complexity and the need for further modeling and consultation. The department has been working on reviewing APCO's strategic plan, which includes plans to change its fee structure to include eco-modulated fees in response to tasking from environment ministers to achieve national packaging targets. Hutchison clarified that this tasking was a directive from environment ministers about twelve months ago, urging APCO to do more to meet the targets, and APCO's response is separate from the ongoing reform work. Environment ministers have noted APCO's strategic plan but have not endorsed it, with the federal minister's position on the plan being a matter for environment ministers. The department is considering options such as a strengthened existing co-regulatory arrangement and has tested mandatory rules under Commonwealth legislation and the EPR scheme. The review of APCO's strategic plan is ongoing, with further consultation on the grading framework, and potential details on the reform to be released in the next couple of months. Hutchison emphasized that APCO's model will not necessarily be the reform model, and the department's work will inform the government's decision on the reform. Additionally, the department is undertaking a statutory review of the Recycling and Waste Reduction Act, which includes considering the views of the Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group and previous submissions. The review aims to make recommendations to improve the efficiency and impact of the act, addressing current and future circular economy needs, and may consider the recommendation for a Circular Economy Act. The discussion highlights the ongoing efforts to address waste management and recycling in Australia, with various stakeholders and government departments working together to develop effective policies and regulations.