Responding to significant changes in the sector as a result of the Australian Government's waste export ban and the impacts of COVID-19, the 2021 Australian Infrastructure Plan includes waste for the first time.
Australia is one of the world's largest waste generators per capita, yet waste infrastructure has traditionally been a peripheral consideration in land-use planning, zoning and design.1 This reflects that waste management is not considered an essential public service like energy and water.
However, having an efficient waste production and processing cycle is fundamental to the quality of life and amenity of metropolitan and regional communities.
The waste sector is currently under enormous pressure because of recent legislative and behavioural changes. The sector needs fundamental reform to overcome the current challenges, meet future needs and reduce Australia's impact on the environment.