A series of statewide workshops led by Sustainability Victoria is helping councils gain knowledge and insights into the circular economy.
To date, more than 250 participants from 47 councils have taken part in the Circular Economy 101 Workshops, which are designed to introduce the circular economy as a practical, business-focused approach to boosting economic resilience, supporting regional prosperity, and reducing environmental impact.
The workshops are aligned with council goals across waste management, resource recovery, economic development, and climate action and are especially relevant to local government areas seeking to support sustainable development, reduce landfill, and stimulate innovation in their communities.
Workshop participants learn how to move beyond the traditional “take-make-waste” model by designing out waste and pollution at the source. They explore strategies for keeping materials and products in use longer to increase productivity and reduce input costs.
The sessions also demonstrate how circular economy principles can support broader climate and sustainability goals, including alignment with net zero and nature positive pathways. Participants hear regional case studies and success stories, highlighting practical circular initiatives already delivering value in local communities.
“A circular economy helps councils and communities build economic resilience by keeping materials in use, reducing costs and regenerating the natural systems we depend on,” said Luke Wilkinson, Manager Regional Engagement at Sustainability Victoria.
“Waste and pollution are not just environmental issues – they are economic inefficiencies. Supporting circular approaches helps councils cut waste costs, build local capacity, and create new opportunities for jobs and investment.
“Councils that support circular economy initiatives help build stronger, more resilient local economies,” Wilkinson said. “In doing so, councils position themselves as leaders in climate action and long-term economic prosperity.”
Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the sessions as both informative and empowering.
One attendee noted, “Really great session. At first, I was overwhelmed by the state of our circular economy, but the workshopping showed how much we can do.” Others praised the relevance and practicality of the content, with one participant saying, “This workshop was a great introduction for our organisation. The practical exercise was thought-provoking and produced great discussion.”
Jodi Newcombe, Circular Economy Officer at Hepburn Shire Council attended the Circular 101 Workshop in Woodend and said she found it really valuable.
“The framework is clever and intuitive, and the presentation provided excellent context and examples to inspire us in our working groups,” Newcombe said.
“I would definitely recommend this to all Council staff, there is something in here for everyone and overall a great way to find efficiencies in local government services and operations.”
Sarah O’Connor, Manager Waste Services at Mildura Regional City Council said, “The circular economy session identified how our organisation could incorporate circular economy in our procurement activities, helping to identify opportunities to create closed material loops in the works and services we supply. This will help Council work towards our goal of diverting waste from going to landfill.”
Sustainability Victoria will continue to deliver further Circular Economy 101 workshops as well as an Introduction to Circular Procurement workshop series with councils throughout the remainder of the year.
