Australia reforms packaging regulation under national waste policy

Updated guidance released in February 2026 outlines a shift toward clearer compliance obligations and stronger producer responsibility for packaging across Australia.

Australia is moving ahead with reforms to its packaging regulation framework, with updated guidance released in February 2026. The federal government is seeking to strengthen rules on waste reduction, recycling and producer responsibility. The programme is led by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and is part of a broader waste and circular economy agenda. Current packaging obligations rely largely on voluntary schemes alongside a mix of state and territory policies. Key points: - Updated guidance released in February 2026 outlines a shift toward clearer compliance obligations and improved outcomes for recycling systems. - Governments are considering regulatory backstops to ensure packaging placed on the Australian market is recyclable, reusable or compostable, and to phase out problematic materials. - The reforms propose expanding extended producer responsibility to place clearer legal obligations on packaging producers, brand owners and importers. - The update signals closer scrutiny of packaging design, labelling and data reporting to improve information on material composition and recyclability. - The changes could affect international packaging suppliers and brands selling goods into Australia, and the government has said consultation with industry and state authorities will continue. Summary: The reforms aim to create a more consistent national approach to packaging and address concerns about fragmented regulation and low recycling rates for some materials. They are likely to increase compliance obligations for producers and influence packaging design, material choices and reporting practices across supply chains. Consultation with industry and state authorities will continue as the reforms are developed.