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There will be a new national circular economy framework released by the end of the year, which will outline innovations and priorities "for an integrated and holistic circular economy transition across governments, industry, investors, and communities".

The development will be informed by a range of analysis and data, including recommendations from the Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group, which is expected to submit a final report to Environment minister Tanya Plibersek this year; and by the CSIRO, who have already produced its own roadmap in this space.

The Advisory Group’s interim report, released earlier this year, recommended the development of a framework that identifies priority sectors, benefits to productivity, competitive advantages, relevant skills, and innovation needed. It also recommended better use of the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) to boost circular economy ambitions.

Speaking during the latest round of Senate Estimates, Kate Lynch, circular economy division head at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), said: “The whole-of-economy policy framework will go beyond just actions in the waste and resource recovery sector”.

More details to come.

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