The Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) has been given the go ahead by the ACCC with an eight-year authorisation of the Soft Plastic Stewardship Australia (SPSA). This will enable the food industry to collect and recycle soft plastic packaging under a voluntary scheme.
AFGC CEO, Colm Maguire said the authorisation is a major milestone that builds on the AFGC’s foundational work to design and develop a new soft plastics stewardship model.
“The AFGC took early and decisive action to lead the development of a new, industry-led solution for soft plastics,” Maguire said. “In 2020, we commenced work on the stewardship model that, in conjunction with the Soft Plastic Taskforce, became the foundation for what is now Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia (SPSA). This model was built on transparency, shared responsibility, and collaboration across the entire supply chain, from brands and packaging suppliers to retailers and recyclers.”
Maguire also acknowledged the early leadership of former CEO Tanya Barden, a true sustainability champion, in shaping the soft plastics stewardship model. He also recognised the significant contributions of Barry Cosier, whose work during his time as AFGC’s Director of Sustainability helped lay the foundation for the initiative and continues through his role at SPSA.
Maguire said the ACCC’s authorisation provides the certainty and confidence needed for industry to invest and scale the scheme.
“This decision recognises that solving Australia’s soft plastics challenge requires industry to work together under clear governance and accountability. It enables our sector to turn commitment into action, establishing the systems and infrastructure needed to recover and recycle soft plastics safely and sustainably,” he said.
Under the authorisation, SPSA members will jointly fund and operate a national collection and recycling program for soft plastics, supported by oversight including public reporting, independent reviews, and independent directors on the board.
“The food and grocery sector is proud to have helped shape this scheme from the ground up,” Maguire said. “We congratulate all SPSA members and stakeholders for their commitment and collaboration. The authorisation gives industry the green light to deliver a credible, long-term recycling solution that restores consumer trust and helps Australia meet its national packaging and waste-reduction goals.”