It says most people will now know that ministers have given their in-principle support to a strengthened Australian Packaging Covenant to replace the current model, subject to a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) if required. It notes five key points of the APC as a subtle change of name; Sustainable Packaging Guidelines replacing The Environmental Code of Practice; no fixed term; all action plans will be for five years; and a reduction in the number of Goals and KPIs.

The NPC says the new covenant will build on the success of the existing model and take a greater focus on packaging design, providing greater investment in workplace recycling, public place recycling and litter reduction initiatives. It will also streamline signatory requirements and provide strengthened governance and compliance procedures to ensure confidence in the delivery of outcomes, according to the NPC. As this could take some time to set up, ministers also agreed to extend the current arrangements for up to 12 months to allow for a smooth transition.

The NPC has also relocated its secretariat. From Monday 14 December, it will operate from Level 14, 28 Freshwater Place, Southbank, VIC, but phone and fax numbers will remain the same.

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