Small Acts, Big Impact: Council Joins Statewide Recycling Campaign

Published on 25 February 2025

Southern Grampians Shire Council is participating in the Small Acts, Big Impact campaign, an initiative powered by Sustainability Victoria that aims to improve recycling habits and reduce waste contamination across the state.

We all want to do the right thing when it comes to recycling, but research shows that while Victorians have good intentions, there’s often confusion around what can and can’t go in our bins.

That’s where Small Acts, Big Impact comes in—arming our Southern Grampians community with the knowledge and confidence to sort waste properly and make a real difference to our environment.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the campaign is a great opportunity for residents to learn what items can be recycled.

“Thanks to funding from Sustainability Victoria, Council’s Sustainability Team has developed a locally tailored education campaign that will help residents recycle smarter and reduce waste,” he said.

“The campaign will focus on improving the sorting of mixed recyclables and FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) bins, while also tackling common contamination issues that were identified in the Bin Audit that Council conducted in November 2024.”

Over the coming weeks, residents can expect to see Small Acts, Big Impact messaging rolled out through traditional and social media channels, to ensure we reach every corner of the Shire.

To help keep recycling information front of mind, Council will also be sending out fridge magnets and educational flyers with clear guidelines on what belongs in your bins.

What’s the goal?
Council is aiming high, with a target to:

• Reduce contamination in recycling bins by 10% by June 2025.
• Reduce contamination in FOGO bins by 3% by June 2025.

In order to measure progress, a follow-up bin audit will be conducted later this year to see just how much our collective efforts are paying off.

Every small act—whether it’s rinsing out containers, keeping soft plastics out of the recycling bin, or ensuring food scraps go into the FOGO bin—adds up to a big impact for our environment and community.

By working together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Southern Grampians.

For more information on correct recycling and waste disposal, visit Council’s website or check out the Small Acts, Big Impact initiative at Sustainability Victoria.

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