Canberrans who need the greatest support will benefit from today's announcement of a new reusable services provider.
St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn (Vinnies) has been announced as the new provider to operate the reusable facilities at Mugga Lane and Mitchell resource management centres following a competitive procurement process.
The current provider, Green Shed, has operated these services over the past 11 years and Executive Branch Manager for ACT NoWaste, Dr Margaret Kitchin, acknowledged that change can be challenging, and appreciated the important services provided by Green Shed. Importantly, workers of the Green Shed will be offered employment by Vinnies, reducing impacts to them.
"The ACT Government would like to acknowledge the contributions and services provided by Green Shed over the past decade. They have become a familiar and much loved provider of reusable goods and I acknowledge that the workers as well as the community may be shocked or saddened to hear of the change of provider," she said.
"Change is challenging, however this was a competitive process for a 'zero sum' contract, meaning the successful tenderer needed to demonstrate the greatest impact and support for the community, rather than being 'best value for money' and Vinnies were successful in demonstrating this.
"This does not take away from the contributions of the Green Shed, and again, we acknowledge their contributions over the past decade, including their charitable initiatives that have supported our community and will be working with them closely over the transition period.
Dr Kitchin said that Vinnies had supported the ACT and region since 1924 and brought a wealth of experience in the reusables sector in addition to well-established support programs which would further support those in our community who need the greatest support.
"The majority of Vinnies' services are made possible by the support of the Canberra community like their emergency assistance relief, the Night Patrol and other programs for people in need. Having Vinnies manage the reuse facilities will enable them to do even more for those needing a hand up. It will also provide opportunities for community and educational upcycling and other activities, as well as to continue to support other local charities," she said.
"Vinnies will also reduce material sent to landfill with an ambitious target of reducing this by 10-30% over the next four years, supporting our circular economy. Further to this, Vinnies will have a dedicated education space made available for the delivery of workshops, repair activities and structured education."
The new contract commences on 31 May 2024 for an initial service term of four years with possible extensions up to another two years.
A transition period will likely occur between 31 May 2024 and 30 June 2024 when Vinnies will accept donations from the public at Mitchell and Mugga Lane shopfronts but may not open for trading to the public until 1 July 2024. The Canberra community will be kept updated ahead of any changes via the City Services website.
