Sydney is running out of landfill and to slow the rate of waste generated, the government introduced laws to mandate separate food scrap collection – FOGO bins – from supermarkets, institutions and hospitality businesses by 1 July 2026 and households by 1 July 2030. FOGO could help us divert almost 950,000 tonnes of waste from landfill every year, with scraps repurposed as compost. I called for statewide and ongoing education campaigns so that everyone understands how to separate waste and avoid contamination – a huge problem in the recycling industry. The bill also includes obligations on supermarkets to keep records on food donations which should be a first step towards mandates that redirect surplus food to people who need it.

I chaired the 2022 inquiry into food production and supply, which called for a state food plan and oversight body to reduce food waste and improve food security. During debate on the FOGO bill, I called on the government to respond to the inquiry.

Waste production is out of control, particularly in plastics waste. I hope the government introduces more reform to avert the looming crisis. My speech > HERE.