Ballarat households have diverted more than 40,000 kilograms of soft plastic from landfill through a local recycling pilot program, delivering environmental and financial benefits for the community.
The Ballarat Soft Plastics Collection Pilot Program has operated since July 2024, with more than 6,000 households participating.
Collectively, participants have diverted the equivalent of about 3,700 household wheelie bins from landfill, reducing waste disposal costs and supporting local recycling outcomes.
Through a partnership with Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia (SPSA), collected material is being recycled into new products and packaging, including brick pavers, insulation, chairs, buckets and fence posts.
Following the program’s success, the City of Ballarat has confirmed the initiative will continue and is inviting additional households to take part.
A survey of participating households conducted in August 2025 attracted 1,266 responses, providing feedback to guide the next phase of the program.
Almost 98 per cent of respondents said they were extremely likely to continue participating.
The main reasons for involvement included ensuring soft plastics were recycled rather than sent to landfill, contributing positively to the environment, and supporting Australia’s recycling industry and local innovation.
The survey also showed strong support for the current kerbside collection model, with supermarket drop-off points identified as the preferred alternative option.
Originally introduced as a 12-month pilot capped at 10,000 households, the program is now open to all residents receiving City of Ballarat waste management services.
The council will continue working with SPSA as the organisation expands soft plastics recycling programs nationally.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Tracey Hargreaves, said the pilot program had delivered strong results for the community.
“Every wrapper, bag and packet we’ve kept out of landfill has made a real difference,” Hargreaves said.
“Together, we’re showing what’s possible when a community comes together for the environment.
“I encourage anybody who is not currently recycling their soft plastics to get involved. You’ll be surprised how much space it frees up in your household waste bin.”
Under the program, residents collect scrunchable soft plastics such as bread bags, chip packets and bubble wrap in supplied orange bags.
Once filled and securely tied, the bags are placed in yellow-lid recycling bins for collection and processing through a circular recycling system.
Residents can register via the City of Ballarat website or by contacting customer service on 5320 5500 to confirm eligibility and receive orange bags.
