Circular Australia has welcomed the federal government’s passage of the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund into legislation, describing it as a landmark investment in Australia’s transition toward a zero-carbon, zero-waste circular economy. Managing Director Lisa McLean emphasised that the soon-to-be-established National Reconstruction Fund Corporation will bolster local innovation and advanced manufacturing, while keeping talent and resources in Australia and positioning the nation for a resource-constrained future.
The organisation stressed that this transition—one of the defining challenges of our generation—offers Australia the chance to become a global circular economy powerhouse by driving science-led innovation, creating new industries, and generating substantial employment.
Here are the core elements of the announcement:
- The National Reconstruction Fund now established via legislation, signalling legislative commitment to circular economy goals.
- Establishment of the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation to deliver targeted investments in seven priority areas including renewables, medical science, transport, agriculture, resources, defence and enabling capabilities.
- Framework anchored in circular economy principles: design out waste and pollution; keep products and materials in use; regenerate natural systems.
