Waste Minimisation Plans - Construction and Demolition Waste

From 1 July 2026, new requirements apply to large construction and demolition projects.

Contractors undertaking projects valued at $1 million or more, as well as any work carried out for the council, are required to develop and submit a Waste Minimisation Plan (WMP).

This requirement applies to both residential and commercial projects that require building or demolition consent.

A WMP must be submitted to Council before any work begins on site. A completed return must be provided no later than two months after the project is finished.

A request for a generic WMP for multiple builds can be made to the council. If a generic plan has been approved, all builds will require an individual return.

What is a WMP?

A WMP is a practical document that outlines how waste will be avoided, reduced, reused, and recycled throughout a project. It supports contractors to plan, reduce costs, and manage materials more efficiently during construction. While it is mandatory for projects valued at $1 million or more, it is recommended that all projects, including those under $1 million, prepare a WMP.

What needs to be included?

Your WMP should clearly outline:

• The types of waste materials expected from the project
• Targets and goals for reducing waste
• Opportunities to reduce, reuse, or recycle materials
• How waste will be measured and tracked throughout the project
• Roles and responsibilities for managing waste on site

All recyclable and reusable materials must be identified and included in the plan, and contractors are expected to make every reasonable effort to divert these materials from landfill.

Contractor responsibilities

• The contractor is responsible for preparing the Waste Minimisation Plan (WMP)
• Completing the required project return
• Ensuring all employees, subcontractors, and any other person working on site are aware of the plan
• Ensuring all employees, subcontractors, and site personnel adhere to the plan

Resource recovery in the district

• Work with local waste service providers to identify ways to divert materials from landfill and improve recovery outcomes.
• The Salvage Yard at the Dump Shop accepts a wide range of reusable construction and demolition materials at no charge. View their diversion guide or contact the team to arrange a visit and discuss how they can support your project.