“At WCRA, we’re committed to raising awareness about the risks lithium-ion batteries pose in our industry. As we celebrate National Recycling Week, and look at all of the amazing that our members and industry are doing, let’s also focus on safe disposal practices to prevent fires and protect the people, environment, and facilities that keep our communities running smoothly. Remember, if you’re unsure about how to dispose of batteries, Recycle Mate can help you find the right solution. Together, we can make recycling safer for everyone! 🔋♻️ Click here for more info

Australia’s leading peak waste and recycling industry organisations have joined together to call for urgent action on the growing hazard posed by batteries and electronics in conventional waste and recycling streams.Ten peak state, territory and national industry groups—comprising the Australian Council of Recycling (ACOR), AORA – Australian Organics Recycling Association Limited, National Waste & Recycling Industry Council, Victorian Waste Management Association, Waste Contractors and Recyclers Association NSW & ACT (WCRA), Waste and Recycling Industry NT – WRINT, Waste Recycling Industry Association (QLD) inc (WRIQ), Waste and Recycling Industry SA – WRISA , @Waste and Recycling Industry Association (WA),  and the Waste…

🎉 What a Success! 🎉 WCRA’s 2nd Annual Safety Summit was an incredible event, and we’re thrilled to share the highlights! From Tim James inspiring kickoff to a diverse range of presentations on Overhead Lines, Fire Safety, groundbreaking technologies, and both mental and physical health—this summit had it all. A massive thank you to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator for their invaluable support and sponsorship and to all of the presenters who gave up their time. Your contribution was key to making this event a resounding success. 🚀 And stay tuned for next year! We’re already planning to make it…

WCRA is encouraged by the NSW Government’s decision to enforce stricter standards on lithium-ion battery-powered e-bikes, e-scooters, and other mobility vehicles. This is a vital step towards improving safe disposal of batteries and improved safety for our industry in Australia.In our industry, there are between 10,000 – 12,000 fires a year caused by improperly disposed batteries, whether in collection trucks or at disposal sites. These incidents put both our staff and the community at risk, and they are entirely preventable.The current regulations surrounding batteries and battery recycling are disjointed and inadequate. It’s reassuring to see the NSW Government taking some…

This shows the power of advocacy, Tony Chappel’s recent speech at the Australian Battery Recycing and Manufacturing conference highlights that NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is taking the time to listen and understand the issues facing our industry and working towards practical and effective actions to mitigate the risks. We certainly haven’t solved the issue yet, with fires continuing to ravage our industry. Stay vigilant. Click here for Tony’s post

We’re thrilled to announce that WCRA, with the support of NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) funding, is offering FREE IWTS Training! This is a fantastic chance to upskill and ensure your team is equipped with the latest industry knowledge.Don’t miss out—secure your spot today! Email [email protected] to book.Let’s continue to drive excellence in our industry together!hashtag#WasteManagement hashtag#Training hashtag#ProfessionalDevelopment Waste Contractors and Recyclers Association NSW & ACT (WCRA)

Free mental health training and coaching Get practical tools to talk about and support mental health in your workplace. Our workplace mental health training and coaching is free to: privately owned NSW businesses with less than 200 employees not for profits of any size. Our expert coaches can work with business leaders one on one to: fine-tune existing workplace mental health initiatives respond to any workplace issues affecting employees’ mental health. You can also access free training for all your staff on how and why they should protect psychological health at work. Check out their website. Respect at work: Standing…

Within the industry of waste management, it is crucial to employ effective risk  management strategies to ensure the safety of workers and the public. This involves the identification of potential risks but also the implementation of proactive measures to eliminate and control these risks.SafeWork NSW will be visiting employers who manage and control waste recycling facilities to verify compliance with work health and safety obligations and provide practical advice and assistance to improve safety standards.Here are some practical tips to help keep your workers safe: • separate people from moving plant such as forklifts, loaders, excavators and trucks using barriers or…

Last week, WCRA organised an insightful and educational tour for seven members of the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA)‘s Policy and Engagement teams. Brett Lemin guided the team as they eagerly interacted with operators, gaining first hand insights into the industry’s operations and daily challenges. The tour encompassed visits to a C&D Recycling Facility, a Transfer Station, an MRF, and a Liquid Treatment Plant. Witnessing the Industry and EPA collaborating, sharing knowledge, and striving towards a common goal was truly inspiring. This collaborative effort is essential in navigating our complex Industry and the daily issues we encounter. A heartfelt thank…