- Cook Labor Government investing more than $250,000 in local solutions that reduce waste, restore the environment and encourage sustainable community action
- Fifteen projects funded across Western Australia
- Funding announced as part of National Recycling Week, which is being held from 9-15 November
- More than $16 million invested since 2017 through the WasteSorted Grants
The Cook Labor Government is distributing more than $250,000 to community-led projects that help to reduce waste, recover valuable resources and protect the environment across Western Australia.
The latest round of WasteSorted Community Education Grants will support community groups, local governments and other organisations to deliver a wide range of initiatives tailored to local needs and challenges.
By empowering communities to develop their own solutions, the grants help drive lasting behaviour change and encourage greater participation in waste reduction and resource recovery activities.
A total of $253,174 has been awarded to 15 projects that will help people recover valuable resources and embrace more sustainable habits at home, school and in their communities across Western Australia.
Examples of projects include:
- a 12-month community education program in the South West, featuring repair and sewing workshops, composting education, school recycling sessions and reuse initiatives;
- an interactive digital platform that uses game-based learning and real-time feedback to help Western Australians sort waste correctly and reduce contamination; and
- a ranger-led waste education program delivering culturally grounded workshops across remote Kimberley communities, helping participants reduce waste through practical repair, reuse and waste avoidance activities.
The diverse range of funded projects demonstrates the value of community-led solutions in addressing local waste challenges. By drawing on local knowledge, networks and expertise, these initiatives can engage people in ways that are meaningful, practical and relevant to their communities.
The WasteSorted Community Education Grants support the goals of the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Strategy 2030 by empowering communities to reduce waste generation, increase resource recovery and divert waste from landfill.
Since 2017, the Cook Labor Government has invested more than $16.4 million through the WasteSorted grants program, supporting hundreds of projects that help build a more sustainable, low-waste future for Western Australia.
The funding announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of National Recycling Week, which highlights the important role individuals, communities and organisations play in reducing waste and improving recycling outcomes.
The full list of grants is available at www.wasteauthority.wa.gov.au/programs/view/wsg
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
“These projects are giving communities the tools and knowledge to reduce waste and make more sustainable choices every day.
“From clothing repair workshops and community swap events to youth education programs and food waste initiatives, these projects show how local action can make a real difference.
“By supporting practical, community-led solutions, we’re helping Western Australians waste less, recover more resources and keep valuable materials out of landfill.
“I congratulate the successful recipients and look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have in communities across the State.”
