Western Australia is stepping up its commitment to sustainability with the return of the WasteSorted Awards for 2025. These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on individuals, businesses, schools, and organizations that are making a real difference in waste management and the circular economy. By fostering innovation and community engagement, the WasteSorted Awards inspire others to adopt smarter waste practices and drive positive environmental change.
Award Categories for 2025
The 2025 WasteSorted Awards feature a range of categories designed to recognize achievements across different sectors. Each category highlights unique contributions to waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.
WasteSorted Awards 2025 Data
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Name | WasteSorted Awards 2025 |
| Organizer | Waste Authority WA, Government of Western Australia |
| Eligibility | Individuals, businesses, schools, community groups, local governments |
| Categories | 10 (see above) |
| Nomination Deadline | 5pm (WST), Friday 6 June 2025 |
| Judging Period | Interviews: 21–22 July 2025 |
| Award Ceremony | 11 September 2025 |
| Submission Method | Online nomination form only |
| Required Documents | Written submission, 2 high-resolution images, optional supporting docs |
| Contact | [email protected], (08) 6102 2516 |
Community Waste Award
Open to all voluntary or non-profit individuals, groups, and organizations, this award honors those who have engaged their communities in positive waste management improvements.
Schools Award
Available to all K-12 schools in Western Australia with current WasteSorted Schools accreditation, this award celebrates schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to waste avoidance and recovery through innovative, school-wide approaches.
Business Award
This category is open to any commercial organization or enterprise. It recognizes excellence in avoiding, reusing, repairing, or recovering waste, as well as efforts to protect the environment from the impacts of business-generated waste. A special small business sub-category may also be awarded.
Waste Champion Award
Open to individuals from any organization, this award is for those who have shown outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to improving waste management.
Waste Team Award
This award is for groups or teams within any organization that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and results in waste management over the past two years.
Local Government Award
Local governments and regional councils can enter this category. The award is given for excellence in avoiding or recovering household and community waste, going above and beyond standard objectives.
Regional Award
Open to regional individuals and organizations, this award recognizes excellence in overcoming regional challenges to achieve positive waste management outcomes.
Community Events and Engagement Award
This award is for individuals and organizations that have excelled in community events, engagement, or campaigns that encourage waste avoidance or recovery.
Innovation Award
Open to all, this award is for initiatives that have demonstrated exceptional innovation in waste management, practices, or outcomes.
Closing the Loop Award
This category is for those who have excelled in demonstrating circular economy principles, recognizing and utilizing the value of waste materials to reduce environmental impacts.
How to Enter the WasteSorted Awards
Entering the WasteSorted Awards is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to submitting your nomination.
Step 1: Download the Nomination Kit
Before you start your application, download the 2025 Nomination Kit. This document will help you understand the assessment criteria and word limits for your submission.
Step 2: Complete the Online Nomination Form
All nominations must be submitted using the new online nomination form. You’ll need to create a separate entry for each category you wish to enter, though it’s recommended to limit yourself to two categories per nomination.
Step 3: Prepare Your Submission
Write a compelling submission that highlights your achievements in waste management. Include supporting documents such as reports, testimonials, media coverage, analytics, photos, and videos. At least two high-resolution images are required.
Step 4: Submit Your Entry
Follow the prompts on the online form to upload your written submission, supporting documents, and images. Accept the terms and conditions and submit your nomination before the deadline.
Important Note:
Email submissions will not be accepted. All entries must be made through the online form.
Key Dates and Judging Process
Nomination Deadline
Nominations for the 2025 WasteSorted Awards closed at 5pm (WST) on Friday, 6 June 2025. This year, the deadline was extended to allow more applicants to participate.
Judging and Interviews
Shortlisted nominees will be contacted at the end of June or early July. The judging panel will conduct interviews with finalists from 21–22 July 2025.
Award Ceremony
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner award ceremony on 11 September 2025, as part of the annual Waste and Resource Recovery Conference.
Why the WasteSorted Awards Matter
The WasteSorted Awards are more than just a celebration of achievement; they are a catalyst for change. By recognizing and sharing the stories of those who are making a difference, the awards inspire others to adopt better waste practices. The initiative is led by the Government of Western Australia and coordinated by the Waste Authority WA, ensuring that the awards have a meaningful impact on the state’s waste management landscape.
Success Stories from Previous Years
Looking back at previous winners provides insight into the types of projects and individuals that have been recognized. Stories of schools implementing comprehensive recycling programs, businesses developing innovative waste solutions, and community groups engaging residents in waste reduction efforts are just a few examples of the inspiring work celebrated by the WasteSorted Awards. Videos and profiles of past winners are available on the official website for those seeking inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I submit nominations in more than one category?
A: Yes, you can submit in multiple categories, but it’s recommended to limit your nominations to two categories per entry.
Q: Are previous entrants allowed to apply again?
A: Yes, previous entrants are welcome to apply for the 2025 awards.
Q: What supporting documents should I include with my submission?
A: You may include reports, testimonials, media coverage, analytics, photos, and videos. At least two high-resolution images are required.
The WasteSorted Awards 2025 are a testament to the power of community, innovation, and commitment in tackling waste challenges. By celebrating those who are doing better than the bin, Western Australia is setting a benchmark for sustainable waste management and inspiring others to follow suit. Whether you’re a business, school, community group, or individual, there’s a place for your achievements to be recognized and celebrated