Councils call for smarter approach to glass recycling

Published on 24 April 2026

Nillumbik Shire Council has joined thirty-four councils across Victoria in supporting the Let’s Be Clear on Glass campaign, calling on the Victorian Government to pause the rollout of a mandatory fourth kerbside bin for glass and instead expand the state’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS).

Mayor Naomi Joiner said council believes there is a more effective, affordable and community‑friendly way to recycle glass without adding unnecessary costs, confusion or additional truck movements.

“We believe there is a better way to recycle glass that doesn’t involve more bins, more trucks and higher costs for households,” Mayor Joiner said.

“At a time when residents are already facing significant cost‑of‑living pressures, we don’t support measures that would require people to pay more each year for a service they already receive.”

Independent economic modelling has shown that introducing a dedicated kerbside glass service would cost council around $1.5 million to establish, with ongoing annual collection cost of around $500,000.  

“This is a significant and ongoing cost that would be passed directly on to ratepayers,” Mayor Joiner said.

“We want to ensure any changes to recycling services deliver real environmental benefits without unfairly impacting local households.”

Council is instead advocating for an expansion of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme to include glass bottles not currently accepted, consistent with schemes already operating in Western Australia, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland.

“The Container Deposit Scheme is well understood, proven and already popular with the community.”

“Building on a system that already works makes far more sense than introducing an expensive new bin that increases emissions and adds complexity.”

Council also raised concerns that a fourth bin would lead to more truck movements, increased congestion and higher emissions, for a material that is already collected through existing recycling services.

As part of the campaign, residents are being invited to share their views directly with the State Government by completing a short community survey.

“We encourage our community to have their say,” Mayor Joiner said.

“This is about finding practical, cost‑effective solutions that work for residents, councils and the environment.”

Council is calling on the Victorian Government to pause the mid‑2027 mandate, release the business case for kerbside glass recycling, and work collaboratively with local government on a solution that aligns with national approaches and delivers the best outcomes for communities.

Community have until 5pm Monday 25 May to provide their thoughts via Participate Nillumbik.