The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has released its FY26–27 Business Plan and Statement of Intent, strengthening Australia’s Packaging Systems with five key focus areas to allow members to set up for success in managing their packaging outcomes and environment.
The five key focus areas include:
- Packaging Standards & Design delivering updated and strengthened Sustainable Packaging Guidelines (SPGs)
- ARL continuity to uplift and strengthen the system
- Reporting & Packaging Data to simplify annual reporting and improve data tools
- EPR and Soft Plastic Stewardship for supporting soft plastic stewardship through SPSA
- Government Relations for expanded engagement with states and territories
CEO Chris Foley’s message focuses on strengthening advocacy, seeking greater regulatory compliance, and supporting and protecting industry leadership through transitions. APCO is committing to advocate directly for practical national regulatory reform.
Delivering a circular economy requires significant investment, better recycling infrastructure, improved data systems, and consistent cross-jurisdiction regulation. The SOI is part of the strategy to coordinate these changes. For consumers, success depends on more than industry, it will also require accessible recycling systems, consistent and clear labelling, and community uptake of reuse and recycling behaviours.
APCO thanks their members, stakeholders and partners for their commitment towards improving Australia’s packaging system and looks forward to building a consistent, effective and circular packaging system for Australia.
