The group has launched a campaign, “Let’s be clear on glass”, urging the government to delay the rollout and instead expand Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.
Councils argue the proposed glass-only bin would add significant costs for both councils and households, at a time when cost-of-living pressures are already high.
Independent modelling has found the rollout could cost councils about $4 million to set up, with households paying an average of $27 more each year for collection and processing.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell said the approach did not suit regional areas.
“With fuel prices rising, and longer distances to travel in regional Victoria, it makes no sense to add extra trucks for glass collection when a proven alternative already exists,” he said.
Instead, councils are pushing for an expansion of the Container Deposit Scheme to include wine and spirit bottles, building on a system already used in other states.
They say this would reduce costs, limit additional truck movements and avoid unnecessary duplication of existing recycling services.
Residents are being encouraged to have their say through a community survey on council’s website.
Councils are now urging the state government to pause the mandatory rollout and work with local government on a more cost-effective solution.
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