Cost-recovery model

Page last updated: 19 March 2025

Despite voluntary commitments and industry progress, the National Packaging Targets (NPTs) remain out of reach. APCO’s Review in 2023 identified economic gaps that hinder recycling, reuse, and circular economy solutions. Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging through a new membership fee structure offers a solution to bridge these gaps in the packaging value chain. APCO’s transition to a new Member fee model, effective in FY27, is being carefully planned to give Members and Signatories ample time to prepare. 

APCO has been consulting with international extended producer responsibility schemes, Members, Signatories and stakeholders to leverage industry expertise and experience to ensure that the eco-modulated fee model delivers the intended outcomes for Australia.  

Preparatory webinar series

Through February 2025, APCO shared insights from its 2024 consultation work with the broader membership. APCO has been conducting whole-of-system consultation via the Collective Action Group, Material Stewardship Committees, Member Reference Group and targeted meetings with industry associations and businesses across the packaging value chain. Through a series of three introductory webinars, APCO shared the progress made on the development of a cost-recovery model to set up extended producer responsibility for packaging in Australia. Details on the webinars can be found below.  

These resources are Member and Signatory only:

1. Introduction to downstream intervention options Recording | Slides
2. Introduction to fee model features and options Recording | Slides
3. Deep dives on elements of interest to Members Recording | Slides | Q&A

Member and Signatory roadshow and consultation process

In April 2025, APCO is conducting a national consultation process on the cost recovery model for the 2030 Strategic Plan and the outcomes that this will deliver. The consultation process will include a consultation paper that will set out options for the fee model and the delivery of downstream outcomes, and an online survey for members to provide input and comment. The consultation opens on 31 March 2025.

This process will ensure that APCO has the information it needs to ensure that Member fees are fair and reasonable while providing Members with the guidance needed to prepare for change and make informed decisions.

The roadshow will take place in Adeliade, Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, and online. You can register for tickets here: 

• Brisbane: 1 April - Register here 
• Perth: 9 April - Register here  
• Adelaide: 10 April - Register here 
• Melbourne: 15 April - Register here  
• Sydney: 16 April - Register here  
• 💻 Online Webinar: 16 April - Register here  

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If you are not an APCO Member or Signatory and would like more information on the cost-recovery model, please contact apco@apco.org.au.