Stakeholders from Melbourne’s venues, events, and precincts met recently for a ‘ReUsables Roundtable’ to explore scalable reuse systems for cups and containers.
The roundtable was facilitated by Sustainability Victoria in collaboration with Boomerang Alliance, the NGO alliance which campaigns to reduce plastic pollution. Sustainability Victoria’s Circular Advisory Service for Events and Tourism outlined its support for venues and events, including partnerships, tailored circularity advice, and connections to help implement reuse practices. Boomerang Alliance presented a ‘Choosing to Reuse’ guide for stadiums, festivals, and events.
Two Australian reuse service providers, Bettercup and WOSUP, demonstrated reuse systems currently in operation, while TOMRA presented a pilot city-wide reuse system in Aarhus, Denmark, for reusable takeaway packaging. The event also featured a session showcasing reuse providers B-Alternative, Cercle, Goodcup, Grounded Goods, Huskee, Reusably, and StackCup.
Shane Rawson, CEO of Stack-Cup Australia, said, “It was great to connect with so many people working toward the same goal of advancing reuse, and the supplier showcase was such a valuable opportunity to share ideas and learn from others in the space.”
Organisations including Tennis Australia, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, and the City of Melbourne shared insights from their reuse initiatives. Value chain partners from hospitality, catering, and waste management, as well as Green Music Australia, contributed perspectives on reuse in festivals and venues.
Ira Malhi, Sustainability Victoria’s Circular Advisory Lead, Events and Tourism, said, “The ReUsables Roundtable was the first of its kind in Victoria and demonstrated the strong interest in reuse systems at venues and events. Sustainability Victoria is committed to supporting that transition with practical tools, advice, and collaboration.”
Toby Hutcheon, campaign manager at Boomerang Alliance, said, “The roundtable brought together representatives of the major stadiums, venues and festivals in Melbourne, with the businesses who provide reuse services. Judging by the interest and energy in the room, the reuse revolution is ready to start.”
Alex Cross, Program Lead Zero Waste City, Waste and Recycling, City of Melbourne, said the event marked a meaningful first step toward a scalable reuse system for Melbourne. “It showcased case studies and exhibits from reuse providers, proving that large-scale implementation is achievable,” he said. “Most importantly, it brought together reuse innovators with key organisations managing hospitality venues, stadiums, and precincts, bridging a critical gap in knowledge and connection. This collaboration laid the groundwork for a future where reuse is not just possible, but practical and impactful across the city.”
