About the Consultation 

The Australian Government is overhauling packaging rules to cut waste, boost recycling and drive a circular economy. Three regulatory options were canvassed, ranging from an expanded co-regulatory scheme to a full producer-responsibility model with eco-modulated fees and mandatory recyclability and recycled-content targets. Industry was also asked to comment on nationwide labelling, data reporting and traceability requirements. For GS1 members - and anyone moving or importing packaged goods - these reforms will shape future obligations for on-pack information, digital product data, and supply-chain reporting.  

 Key Documents & Links 

• Consultation Paper – Reform of Packaging Regulation (PDF) 

• Webinar slides & transcript (25 Sept 2024) 

• Consultation summary of 426 responses (published by DCCEEW)  

• DCCEEW Packaging Reform Consultation Paper- GS1 Submission FINAL

GS1 Australia Submission

GS1 Australia welcomed DCCEEW’s recognition of global data standards as a design principle for packaging reform. Our submission focused on three practical enablers: 

1. Leverage existing registry infrastructure – Granular packaging data needed for eco-modulated fees already travels through the National Product Catalogue (NPC). Aligning any new reporting schema with this proven, standards-based platform will minimise duplication and compliance cost. 

2. Enable digital labelling – Mandatory recyclability and recycled-content labels could crowd limited pack real estate and trigger costly reprints. GS1-powered QR codes offer a flexible alternative, linking consumers to dynamic, location-specific disposal advice and broader product information while remaining scannable at retail POS. 

3. Scale traceability through industry-led support – Successful adoption of the National Framework for Recycled Content Traceability will hinge on consistent identifiers (GTIN, GLN) and practical guidance for the post-collection sector. GS1 offered to co-create sector-specific toolkits and training with APCO and technology providers. 

Across all options GS1 urged: 

• Nationally consistent, globally aligned requirements to keep Australian trade friction-free. 

• Flexible, phased implementation so businesses—especially SMEs—can upgrade systems over time. 

• Active collaboration with standards, conformity-assessment and technology communities to accelerate uptake and innovation. 

📄 Download GS1 Australia’s full submission (PDF)