Summary of Submissions and EPA Response Report released

The EPA has completed its review of stakeholder submissions on proposed reforms to the Environment Protection (Waste to Resources) Policy 2010 (W2R EPP). A Summary of Submissions and EPA Response Report (the Report) is now available. The Report summarises stakeholder feedback and outlines the EPA's response for each policy proposal.

The EPA intends to progress the following reform areas as its first set of priorities. Other reforms are planned to be progressed as a later priority, as outlined in the Report.

1. Product stewardship

  1. Feedback highlighted the need for stronger product stewardship arrangements to reduce problematic waste and support resource recovery.
  2. The EPA will further explore state-based product stewardship legislation to complement national schemes and fill gaps, with a focus on lithium-ion batteries as a priority area.
  3. This will ensure producers share responsibility for managing the lifecycle of their products, reducing environmental impacts and costs for councils and the community.

2. Landfill bans

  1. Feedback strongly supported stronger measures to keep harmful and recoverable materials out of landfill.
  2. The EPA will undertake detailed feasibility assessments to support recommendation for additional landfill bans, with particular focus on:
    1. Batteries - to be progressed immediately, recognising fire, safety, and environmental risks.
    2. Segregated organics - to be advanced as a priority to reduce landfill emissions and improve resource recovery.
    3. Solar panels and wind turbine blades - with consideration of how supporting resource recovery pathways can be developed and promoted.
  3. This approach balances ambition with practical implementation to avoid unintended costs or disruption.

3. Revised W2R EPP framework

  1. Feedback showed broad support for a modernised regulatory framework that provides clarity and consistency.
  2. The EPA will progress development of a revised W2R EPP regulatory framework for consultation, including objectives, principles, end of waste, and mandatory waste management requirements.
  3. This will ensure legislation is fit-for-purpose, responsive to new technologies, and supports highest-value use of materials.

4. Three-bin systems and standardised bins - municipal solid waste

  1. Feedback supported consistent three-bin systems for households to improve recycling outcomes.
  2. The EPA will progress requirements for metro Adelaide councils to provide a three-bin system for households where practical and shift to providing consistent bin lid colours (via natural attrition).
  3. This will reduce contamination, make recycling easier for households, and support consistent state-wide messaging.

5. Source separation and collection requirements - commercial and industrial waste

  1. Feedback supported the introduction of source separation and collection requirement for businesses and organisations, recognising the vital role that the sector plays in South Australia's transition to a circular economy.
  2. The EPA will undertake detailed cost-benefit analysis to design a staged approach to source separation and collection requirements for organics and recyclables, with a focus on high waste generating businesses.
  3. This evidence-based approach will ensure reforms are practical, proportionate, and deliver strong resource recovery outcomes.

6. Local government reporting and kerbside audits

  1. Feedback emphasised the importance of accurate and timely data to measure progress and target improvements.
  2. The EPA will work with Green Industries SA and the SA Local Government Association to streamline reporting and strengthen kerbside auditing.
  3. Where necessary, mandatory requirements may be considered to ensure consistency, while minimising reporting burden.

These priorities have been incorporated into actions under South Australia waste strategy, Accelerating SA's transition to a circular economy: South Australia's waste strategy 2025-2030, which was released by Green Industries SA (GISA) in December 2025.



Consultation has concluded