VACC Welcomes Parliamentary Tyre Industry Inquiry – But Mandatory Stewardship Scheme Needed

10 November 2025

The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has welcomed the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Innovation and Science inquiry into the Australian tyre industry and its role in the circular economy.

 However, VACC is calling on the government to move beyond investigation and mandate a mandatory product stewardship scheme for end-of-life tyres, similar to the successful model already in operation in New Zealand.

 "This inquiry is well overdue, but welcome news," said Peter Jones, VACC Chief Executive Officer. "The automotive industry is crying out for a level playing field when it comes to waste tyre management. The status quo simply isn't working for legitimate businesses."

 Australia currently generates over 67 million end-of-life tyres annually, with approximately 25 per cent unaccounted for in Victoria alone – potentially illegally dumped or stockpiled. The current voluntary stewardship scheme, whilst valuable in funding research, has failed to substantially reduce collection costs or drive meaningful investment in recycling infrastructure.

 "Rogue operators are placing legitimate businesses at a significant disadvantage, often using deceptive tactics to undercut responsible retailers and collectors," Mr Jones explained. "These operators dump tyres illegally, create fire hazards, and damage community environments. This isn't just an environmental issue – it's a competitive fairness issue for law-abiding businesses."

 VACC is advocating for a mandatory, co-regulated stewardship scheme that would establish clear responsibility across the tyre lifecycle – from manufacturers and importers through to retailers and consumers. Such a scheme would create a more level playing field and ensure all industry participants meet their environmental obligations.

 "We also need significantly greater penalties for illegal dumping and rogue operators," Mr Jones said. "A regulatory framework with real teeth is essential to protect both the environment and legitimate businesses operating responsibly within the industry."

 VACC is committed to collaborating with the parliamentary inquiry and the government to develop practical solutions that drive genuine innovation, support investment in recycling technologies, and foster sustainable business models for Victoria's automotive sector.

 "The tyre industry has enormous potential to contribute to a circular economy and create valuable jobs in recycling and resource recovery," Mr Jones concluded. "But we need government leadership and a mandated stewardship scheme to make this a reality."

 The Committee is seeking written submissions addressing the inquiry terms of reference by Friday 23 January 2026. VACC encourages all members of the automotive industry to engage with this important process.

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Media contact:

 Andrew Molloy

Manager Marketing, Media, Communications & Publications

P. 03 9829 1248 | M. 0457 188 375 | E. [email protected] | W. vacc.com.au

 Karla Leach

Executive Manager, Marketing and Communications

P. 03 9829 1247 | M. 0429 334 832 | E. [email protected] | W. vacc.com.au