Soft plastics have become a flashpoint for Australian consumers, with new research showing strong public backing for tougher packaging laws and greater accountability for brands.
According to Cleanaway’s 2026 Recycling Behaviours Report, 94 per cent of Australians support a circular economy for packaging, while 92 per cent back national requirements for recycled content in plastic packaging.
The survey also found that 89 per cent believe brands and manufacturers should face stronger obligations to help reduce waste.
The findings highlight growing frustration with Australia’s recycling system, particularly around soft plastics. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they had felt misled by packaging that appeared recyclable but was not accepted through existing recycling systems, while almost half admitted placing soft plastics in kerbside recycling bins in the hope they would be recycled.
“What’s so encouraging about this year’s findings is just how engaged Australians are. More than four in five (83 per cent) want national consistency in recycling standards,” said Jeroen Wassenaar, head of innovation at Cleanaway.
“They believe in recycling, they believe in a circular economy, and they’re ready to play their part. The opportunity now is for industry, policy makers and manufacturers to keep working together to match that momentum with reforms that reflect this ambition.”
The report, conducted in partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, found that support for a circular economy has risen to 99 per cent, up from 95 per cent in 2024. Meanwhile, 94 per cent of Australians want consistent recycling rules across all states and territories.
The results come as Cleanaway and Viva Energy continue developing Cycleback Plastics, a proposed advanced recycling facility that would process soft plastics into food-grade recycled polypropylene.
The project has entered its engineering phase, with final investment decisions dependent on the introduction of mandatory product stewardship and recycled-content requirements.
Beyond packaging, the report identified strong support for the national rollout of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) services, with 86 per cent of Australians believing expanded access would help reduce waste sent to landfill.
Battery disposal remains another challenge, with many consumers still incorrectly disposing of battery-powered devices despite growing awareness of associated fire risks.
Cleanaway said the findings highlight strong public demand for reforms that improve recycling outcomes and support investment in Australia’s domestic recycling infrastructure.
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