Business groups call for transparency on COAG packaging report
An alliance of Australia’s top business associations have called for a COAG report, the Packaging Impacts Decision Regulation Impact Statement (DRIS), prepared for the nation’s environment ministers on a proposed national container deposit scheme, to be made public.
In a statement by the Environment Ministers after the meeting of 29 April 2014, it was agreed that the DRIS would be made public after time for jurisdictions to assess the report.
A recent media report in the Daily Telegraph suggested that the scheme being considered by the federal and state ministers could cost consumers up to $8,000,000,000 ($8 Billion) over 20 years.
The Group’s spokesperson, Mrs Denita Wawn of the Brewers Association, said ministers have had almost 3 months to consider the report and, given the uncertainty, media speculation and cost implications, consumers should be informed before a policy decision is taken.
Business believes the cost of a national container deposit scheme would be a burden to consumers of up to 20 cents extra for every drink bottle versus an industry backed solution that would make it easier for Australians to recycle litter at their work, at home and in public places including parks, beaches, sporting grounds and shopping centres.
The Industry’s National Recycling Action Plan would have no cost to taxpayers with beverage, food and retail industries committing to generate $285 million of programs and initiatives across the country to increase the recycling of packaging and to reduce littler.
Taxpayers have funded the DRIS and are entitled to be informed of the results ahead of any decision.
Today’s call for the Packaging Impacts Decision Regulation Impact Statement to be released is supported by an alliance of:
Australian Beverages Council Australian Food and Grocery Council, Australian National Retailers Association, Brewers Association of Australia & New Zealand, National Packaging Covenant Industry Association
ENDS
For further information call:
Brewers Association – Mrs Denita Wawn, CEO, 0416 145 233
Australian Beverages Council – Mr Geoff Parker, CEO, 0407 646 195
AFGC – Ms Natalie Wimmer, Media Contact, 0450 728 660
ANRA – Ms Alicia Collins, Media Contact, 0409 437 433
NPCIA – Mr Stan Moore, CEO, 0414 656 746