What’s Happening?
Circular Communities Australia is launching Australia’s first purpose-built big bag recycling facility in Toowoomba, Queensland.
The innovative facility will process large industrial bags used across agriculture, construction, and manufacturing industries, transforming them into new products like panelling and seating through state-of-the-art recycling technology.
Why It Matters?
The facility represents a major leap forward in sustainable waste management by addressing a challenging waste stream—large industrial bags.
This initiative supports the circular economy, reduces landfill waste, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and creates local jobs. It also serves as a blueprint for similar initiatives across Australia.
Stephen Richards, Managing Director of Circular Communities Australia, emphasised the project’s impact, stating, “This plant marks a new chapter for our Members and community, but more importantly, serves as a model for future recycling initiatives across the nation. By providing a dedicated solution for this specialised waste stream, we are setting a new standard for sustainability and innovation in resource recovery and reuse.”

Local Impact
Toowoomba will benefit significantly from this initiative, with the plant already providing 8 full-time roles and expected to grow to 15 positions.
Additionally, partnerships with organisations like the Endeavour Foundation are creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who have faced barriers to work, further strengthening the community’s social fabric.
Peter, a plant operator and Veteran, shared his experience: “Working at the new Toowoomba facility has given me new opportunities that wouldn’t have been available before. As a Veteran, this is a new chapter for me, and I’m excited to see what comes next.”
By the Numbers
- 4,000 tonnes per year of waste diverted from landfills.
- Over 5,871 tonnes of CO2e greenhouse gases prevented annually, equivalent to powering 1,000 residential homes for a year.
- Employment created: 8 full-time roles, growing to 15 positions in the future.
Zoom In
The recycling facility uses advanced technology to efficiently process woven polypropylene (wPP) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) industrial bags.
This innovation converts waste into valuable products, offering a tangible example of how local manufacturing can thrive in Australia.
“This is a place where materials can continuously be reused and recycled. It’s our chance to show that local manufacturing is real, and it’s happening here,” said Stephen Richards.
Peter added: “The work takes the raw plastic bags and processes them through some amazing equipment. It’s highly technical and satisfying work. It’s like watching an entirely new product be reborn.”
Zoom Out
This facility is part of a broader push toward a circular economy in Australia, showcasing the nation’s ability to lead sustainable resource recovery efforts.
It also highlights the role of regional communities like Toowoomba in driving environmental and economic innovation.

What to Look For Next?
This launch sets the stage for further recycling innovations, encouraging other regions to adopt similar models and drive sustainable practices across Australia.
Community members, industry leaders, and stakeholders are invited to attend the facility’s grand opening to learn more about its operations and impact.
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