Is Your Business Packaging Regulations Ready?

Australia's packaging regulations are entering a new era, and businesses that aren't prepared will face rising costs, increased scrutiny, and compliance risks.

Our new Packaging Regulations Explainer unpacks what's coming and what you need to do to stay ahead.

Here's a top-line overview of what's inside.

Voluntary participation is no longer enough

If your business generates more than $5 million in annual turnover and you place packaging on the Australian market, you must now comply with the National Environmental Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure. That means either signing up with the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation or reporting directly through the NEPM framework with detailed Annual Reports and Action Plans.

Voluntary compliance is no longer optional—it's a legal obligation.

Extended Producer Responsibility is coming

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes are being introduced in Australia to hold businesses accountable for the packaging they place on the market. EPR is already in play globally, and now it's here.

Here's how it's rolling out in Australia:

• FY27: Threshold begins at $100 million turnover
• FY28: Drops to $50 million
• FY29: Expected to include businesses with >$5 million turnover

If you don't start preparing now, it will affect your bottom line.

Costs are increasing... and so is the risk

EPR fees, starting in July 2026, are expected to range from:

• $415–$551 per tonne for soft plastics
• $60 per tonne for rigid plastics
• $19 per tonne for fibre

These are not one-off charges. And if you can't prove what your packaging is made from or where it goes, you'll likely pay more.

Accurate data matters more than ever

Discounts may be available through eco-modulation frameworks,but only with the right data. If you're not already collecting accurate, verifiable packaging information across your B2C and B2B operations, you'll be at a disadvantage.

Accurate packaging data will provide you with the evidence required. Without evidence you will risk higher fees, more audits, and regulatory penalties.

Most businesses aren't ready

Australia's National Packaging Targets haven't been met. That's a signal that most businesses still lack the systems and data needed to manage their packaging footprint effectively. The time to get your packaging data in order is now.

Want to Get Regulations Ready?

Our FREE explainer outlines the evolving regulatory landscape, the costs of inaction, and how your business can mitigate risk through better data and proactive compliance.

📥 Download the Packaging Regulations Explainer now

📞 Or book your free "Get Regulations Ready" consultation and future-proof your packaging strategy.

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