Victoria Aligns Waste Levy with NSW, What It Means for Waste Management Consulting, Communities and Government
By Matt Culic, 18 Aug 2025, VIC
Reading Time: 2 mins read
Victoria’s 2025 State Budget has set a new course for waste and resource recovery. From 1 July 2025, the metropolitan industrial and municipal waste levy will rise to $167.90 per tonne, up from $129.27. This increase brings Victoria’s rates in line with New South Wales and is expected to drive stronger recycling and resource recovery outcomes across the state.
The Waste Management and Resource Recovery Association of Australia (WMRR) welcomed the decision, with CEO Gayle Sloan stating:
“This waste levy move sends a clear signal to our industry that Victoria is open for WARR investment. The current levy rate is completely out of step with its neighbouring states and once it aligns next year, it must continue to do so”
What This Means for Communities and Government
The levy increase is not just a financial measure—it’s a signal for change.
For communities, it creates stronger incentives for recycling, reduces the risk of illegal dumping, and supports cleaner, healthier environments.
For government and councils, it brings Victoria closer to circular economy targets, while also ensuring that valuable resources are managed locally rather than moved interstate.
At the same time, these changes bring new responsibilities. Councils must adapt waste strategies to minimise rising landfill costs, charitable organisations need support to manage the impacts of illegal dumping, and communities require clear education on waste reduction..
Budget Highlights for Waste and Resource Recovery
The levy increase is part of a wider package of measures designed to protect the environment and boost sustainability
$44 million for the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to crack down on illegal dumping and waste crime.
$15 million to advance circular economy targets and support Recycling Victoria.
$7.5 million to continue the waste levy rebate grant program for charitable recycler.
Together, these measures demonstrate a strong commitment to building a fairer, cleaner, and more sustainable Victoria.
How Waste Management Consulting Can Help
At Circular Futures Group, we recognise that change creates both challenges and opportunities. Our waste management consulting services support both communities and government to
Design effective waste strategies that reduce landfill reliance and cut costs.
Advise councils and agencies on policy implementation, compliance, and long-term planning.
Support charitable organisations with solutions that minimise the impacts of illegal dumping.
Guide communities through waste education programs that encourage recycling and responsible disposal.
By working together, governments, councils, and communities can turn the waste levy increase into a driver for innovation and sustainability.
Moving Towards a Circular Future
Victoria’s alignment with NSW is a critical step in reducing interstate waste movement and encouraging resource recovery. But real change requires ongoing collaboration—between states, governments, industry, and communities.
At Circular Futures Group, we help bridge these connections, providing strategic advice and practical solutions to ensure levy reforms benefit everyone.
Explore how our circular economy consulting services can help your business close the loop and thrive in a resource-conscious future.
Partner With Us for Smarter Waste Management
With Victoria’s waste levy set to rise in 2025, now is the time to plan ahead. At Circular Futures Group, our waste management consulting team helps councils, government, and community organisations cut costs, stay compliant, and find better recycling and resource recovery solutions