Glass‑only recycling bins
Background
The Victorian State Government has mandated the introduction of glass‑only recycling bins by 2027. This would require households to use a fourth bin dedicated solely to glass. Hume City Council strongly opposes the mandatory rollout of a fourth bin. We believe there is a more efficient, affordable, and practical way to improve glass recycling.
Alongside 41 other Victorian councils, we are advocating for an extended timeframe for introducing any glass‑only recycling service and for prioritising the expansion of the existing Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) in Victoria.
Expanding the CDS offers a more cost‑effective and convenient way to improve glass recycling without placing additional storage or transport burdens on residents. Importantly, this approach would not change our current recycling service, meaning households can continue using their existing yellow bin for glass.
What a fourth bin means for households:
- More collection trucks on local roads, increasing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions
- Higher costs for ratepayers — estimated to cost Hume residents more than $10 million, with no clear added benefit
- Greater confusion and higher contamination risks across household recycling systems
We support smarter recycling systems that deliver better outcomes.
Victorians say ‘no’ to a glass-only bin
Nearly 25,000 Victorians have spoken, and the message is clear: they don’t want a costly fourth glass recycling bin.
A statewide survey by councils captured a strong cross-section of community views and found 83% oppose the purple-lidded, glass-only bin. Instead, the community backs a smarter solution. Ninety-one per cent support expanding the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include glass wine and spirit bottles, improving recycling options without adding another bin.
With strong community opposition and significant costs, 42 councils have joined forces, urging the state government to reconsider the July 2027 deadline.
Our ask
Delay the July 2027 deadline for councils to introduce a glass only recycling service to allow time to explore alternative options.
Expand the Container Deposit Scheme to accept wine and spirit bottles in line with other states in Australia.
Review the effectiveness of the Container Deposit Scheme and assess against the usage of the glass recycling service that has been rolled out by councils to date.
Share the business case on kerbside glass recycling for Victoria.