Local governments face a deadline of July 1, 2027 to implement the four-bin reform, a significant change to current waste management practices.
The letter details research showing the glass bin initiative would require a $4 million council investment and add an average $27 yearly cost to household budgets.
It also states extending the deadline would allow local councils to monitor the Container Deposit Scheme centres in their areas, which have similar benefits to glass bins in a community.
The Victorian Government pledged $86 million in June 2021 to assist local councils in purchasing new bins, enhancing drop-off facilities and launching recycling education campaigns.
By separating glass from paper and cardboard, it aims to reduce contamination and make both materials easier to recycle effectively.
It also announced a further $40.9 million to support councils, businesses and communities to maximise recycling and create new jobs in the recycling sector.
In late-2024, Campaspe Shire Council endorsed a letter to Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos, asking them to reconsider the flexibility of the glass bin services, especially to regional towns.
In the report made by council’s manager for waste and environment, multiple concerns were outlined regarding the structure not fitting a rural area and concerns about the reform’s ‘opt-out’ model.
It also pointed out the Material Recovery Facility used by Campaspe Shire waste services also accepts waste from New South Wales, meaning any glassless material collected would be contaminated at the MRF.
At the September 2024 council meeting, Cr Leanne Pentreath expressed strong reservations about the policy, questioning its practicality and effectiveness
“We’re going to have a truck that goes around that picks up the glass (and) a truck that goes around that picks up the rubbish, and they’re going to take it back to the same spot,” she said.
“We need to continue to advocate that waste services... are relative to our needs.
Cr Paul Jarman said there should be a “better way” to recycle glass, including the six CDS centres already in place across Campaspe.
The letter sent on behalf of 30 councils across Victoria asked the Victorian Government to listen to concerns of councils and delay the mandatory implementation date to consider alternative options.
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