The recent Victorian State Budget has introduced a significant change to the state’s waste levy, aligning it with the rates in New South Wales. This adjustment is expected to have a considerable impact on local waste management practices, including skip bin hire and waste management in Bendigo.
As of 1 July 2025, the waste levy for metropolitan industrial and municipal waste will increase to $167.9 per tonne, up from the current $129.27. Rural landfills, which currently have a lower levy than metropolitan areas, will also see proportional increases. This move aims to encourage resource recovery and reduce waste sent to landfills across Victoria.
The Waste Management and Resource Recovery Association of Australia (WMRR) has welcomed the increase, viewing it as a positive step towards fostering more sustainable practices in the waste industry. By putting a higher price on waste, the levy incentivises businesses and individuals to focus on recycling and recovery, rather than disposal.
In addition to the levy increase, the state government has allocated $44 million to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to combat illegal dumping and other waste-related crimes. A further $15 million has been earmarked to advance circular economy initiatives, supporting Recycling Victoria’s efforts to increase recycling rates and help households reduce waste. Additionally, $7.5 million will continue the waste levy rebate grant program for charitable recyclers, alleviating the burden of illegal dumping at donation sites.
According to Gayle Sloan, CEO of WMRR, this harmonisation of the waste levy will encourage investment in the waste and resource recovery industry in Victoria. Sloan also emphasised the importance of ongoing cooperation between states to align levy rates across the east coast, which would further increase the diversion of materials from landfill.
For residents and businesses in Bendigo, this means a heightened focus on responsible waste management. If you are considering skip bin hire in Bendigo, it is important to be aware of these changes and ensure your waste is disposed of responsibly. Contact us today to see how we can assist you in disposing of your waste properly.