Have your say on proposed glass recycling drop-off sites

Published on 21 October 2026

Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting residents to provide feedback on the proposed locations of a new network of glass recycling drop-off sites, set to be introduced across the shire in July 2027.

The new service aligns with Victorian Government waste and recycling reforms that require councils to separate glass from mixed recycling. Once the changes are introduced, glass bottles and jars will no longer be accepted in yellow-lid recycling bins and will instead be taken to dedicated glass recycling drop-off points.

Drop-off sites will be located at the Castlemaine and Maldon Transfer stations. Council has also identified proposed locations in:

• Harcourt
• Metcalfe
• Taradale
• Chewton
• Fryerstown
• Guildford
• Newstead
• Campbells Creek

Residents are encouraged to review the proposed locations and share their feedback before final decisions are made.

Mayor Toby Heydon said community input would help ensure the sites work well for local communities.

"We're keen to hear from residents about the proposed locations before the network is rolled out. Community feedback will help us determine the best places for these facilities across the shire."

The proposed sites are located on Council-managed land and have been selected based on operational requirements. Sites need to be accessible for cars, trucks and pedestrians, provide space for parking, have access to electricity and be situated on a flat surface.

Why a glass drop-off network?

Council considered both a kerbside glass collection service and a glass drop-off model before determining that a drop-off network is the most practical and cost-effective option for Mount Alexander Shire.

The introduction of Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme has significantly reduced the amount of glass entering household recycling systems, making a separate kerbside service less efficient. A glass drop-off network is estimated to cost around 80 per cent less than a kerbside collection service while still providing residents with an effective way to recycle glass.

Council recognises that some residents may face challenges accessing the drop-off sites. As part of the rollout, Council will work with older residents, people living with disability, residents without access to transport and community organisations to explore practical solutions that support accessibility and participation.

Residents can view maps and detailed information about each proposed location and provide feedback.

Have your say at www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/glass.

Feedback closes on Monday 2 November.