Waste legislation

The object of Queensland’s waste reduction and recycling legislation is to reduce waste, promote recycling and encourage the efficient use of resources to minimise impacts to the environment.

The Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011 and the Waste Reduction and Recycling Regulation 2023 set out requirements for the waste strategy, the waste levy, management of priority materials, the container refund scheme, litter and illegal dumping offences, and end of waste codes.

The Environmental Protection Act 1994 and the Environmental Protection Regulation 2019 include provisions for regulating environmentally relevant activities, including waste management activities, and set our provisions for tracking regulated waste.

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) administers the legislation for waste and recycling in Queensland and is responsible for making changes that ensure the laws remain relevant, effective and responsive to evolving needs and circumstances.

When significant changes are proposed, DETSI will consult industry, stakeholders and community. This is important because it ensures decisions, policies and legislation are informed, inclusive, and effective. Engaging with stakeholders, experts, and the community provides valuable insights, builds trust, and helps achieve better outcomes.