Murrindindi Shire Council is encouraging residents to keep their recycling loose - not in plastic bags - so more materials can be properly processed and turned into new products. This initiative supports a statewide goal to divert 80% of waste from landfill by 2030 and create a more sustainable future for our community.
This campaign coincides with the changes to the recycling system across Victoria. In Murrindindi Shire, this involves the introduction of glass recycling and food and organics recycling in July 2025.
Currently, 16% of Victorians mistakenly place their recycling in plastic bags before putting it in their kerbside bin. Bagged recycling is one of the biggest contaminants at sorting facilities, preventing clean materials from being recycled. As a result, bagged recycling often ends up in landfill.
Recycling correctly is simple:
- place items like paper, cardboard, cans, and bottles directly into your recycling bin, never in bags
- ensure recyclables are clean and dry before placing them in the bin
- check Council's guidelines to see what can and cannot be recycled.
For more information on what you can and cannot recycle in Murrindindi Shire, visit our Mixed recycling bin - yellow lid page or give Council a call on (03) 5772 0333.
This campaign is funded by Sustainability Victoria's Circular Economy Household Education Fund, on behalf of the Victoria State Government.
Murrindindi Shire Council's Sustainability and Assets Portfolio Councillor Sue Carpenter emphasised the importance of this initiative: "By keeping your recyclables loose in your yellow bin, you help ensure that more materials are diverted from landfill and turned into new products, contributing to a more sustainable future. Instead of using plastic or paper bags, try using a large tub to collect recycling loose. You can also check what belongs in your recycling bin by visiting Council's website."
"In July this year, we'll be introducing two new recycling services to your kerbside collection: separate glass recycling and food and garden organics recycling, to complement our existing mixed recycling service. Council will be rolling out a comprehensive education campaign to help residents make the most of these new services and use them correctly. Together, small acts like recycling correctly can make a big difference to our environment and community."
