Labor ditches new packaging laws to cut plastic waste, sparking unprecedented ‘scale and breadth of outrage’

The Albanese government has dropped its plan for new packaging laws. The laws would have forced companies to cut plastic waste. The environment department told industry groups the promise would not be kept before the next election. It said the government did not want to add to cost of living pressures. Greens and environment groups are angry. The Boomerang Alliance said ongoing inaction will not be tolerated. It said the government broke its promise to the public. Recycling groups also want clear national rules.

For years there has been talk of a national packaging scheme. It could have limited empty space in packages and cut waste. Producers might have had to pay for packaging across its whole life. The government worried that costs would be passed on to shoppers. Recycling companies say they are closing because there is no clear policy. They want one set of rules across the country. Environment minister Murray Watt says the government will keep working with the states.

Less plastic waste means cleaner beaches and less harm to wildlife. Shoppers may also see less needless packaging if rules come back.