The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is seeking feedback on a draft plan to improve recycling and address landfill capacity constraints across regional New South Wales.
The EPA has released Chapter 2 of the Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan for a six-week public consultation, inviting regional councils, waste industry representatives and community members to comment on proposed measures to address waste management challenges.
EPA Executive Director of Policy, Programs and Finance Asela Atapattu said the chapter focuses on developing solutions to regional waste infrastructure needs.
“The Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan is about ensuring that people right across NSW can effectively participate in a thriving circular economy – no matter your postcode,” Mr Atapattu said.
The draft identifies underinvestment in waste infrastructure, capacity shortages and the high costs of transporting and recycling materials as key issues affecting regional NSW.
It proposes developing regional waste plans, improving data collection and streamlining planning processes to address current and emerging challenges.
Mr Atapattu said some regional councils were providing effective waste and recycling services, but waste generation was outpacing strategic planning for local infrastructure in some areas.
“We’re calling on key stakeholders including regional councils, industry and community members to have their say on the Plan and help us design a better path forward for NSW,” he said.
The EPA describes the plan as the first policy document of its kind in the state, intended to address waste management challenges as NSW grows.
Public feedback on the draft chapter is open until Monday, 30 November 2026. Submissions and survey responses can be made through the NSW EPA consultation website.
