The program helps councils upgrade outdated waste sites, improve environmental outcomes and bring operations into line with current standards.
Two projects have been funded under the program, including the necessary rehabilitation works at the closed Koraleigh Landfill site and new recycling equipment for Moama Waste Management Facility.
Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie said the funding would benefit both the community and environment.
“This support allows us to improve recycling in Moama and responsibly rehabilitate the Koraleigh landfill following its closure,” Cr Harvie said.
“It means more waste can be recovered and reused, while also reducing risks to the environment and ensuring our facilities meet modern standards.
“This is about protecting our environment for future generations while making sure our waste services are safe, efficient and sustainable.”
The Moama Waste Management Facility received a $64,915 boost to purchase necessary recycling equipment, including a new cardboard baler and polystyrene compactor.
The baler will press clean cardboard into 400kg bales for transport and reprocessing, while the compactor will recycle bulky polystyrene, significantly reducing landfill space use.
Both will be installed in the Return and Earn shed and will help to increase recycling rates, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and divert more material away from landfill.
Although the Koraleigh landfill site is now permanently closed, it requires full rehabilitation to minimise environmental risk and ensure EPA compliance.
The grant contributed $321,850 towards the rehabilitation project — $21,850 was allocated to the design while the remaining $300,000 was put towards the works.
A qualified engineer is preparing a detailed rehabilitation design plan that will guide all future works required to rehabilitate the site, including landfill capping.
All projects also require additional funding from council.
