WMRR Board Communiqué – April 2026

The WMRR Board met on 14 April 2026 to review organisational performance, industry developments, and key strategic priorities.

Top of mind for the Board was the ongoing industry challenge of rising fuel costs, which continue to impact the waste and resource recovery sector. While government continues to advise that fuel supply remains stable, the Board is acutely aware that cost pressures are increasing significantly and impacting the sector, with WMRR actively engaging with governments and industry through roundtables and advocacy. The Board also noted emerging supply chain disruptions and the importance of increasing the use of locally sourced recycled materials to strengthen resilience.

Whilst the Board noted that the fuel crisis may impact member participation in upcoming WMRR events, at this stage the association’s financial position remains strong. With the membership annual renewal period successfully undertaken , it was pleasing to see that renewals are up 9.8% on the previous year, and that financial performance remains stable. Preparations for major events, including the ENVIRO Conference mid-year and ALTS in late October 2026, are progressing, alongside the rollout of new training initiatives such as the Foundations of WARR program and the development of webinars and bite-sized learning.

Also coming up is the WMRR Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will be held in Adelaide on Monday 22 June 2026 ahead of the Enviro Conference. After the AGM, the Board will be refreshed with three (3) director positions reaching the end of their two (2) year tenure. The Board noted that the Nominations Committee confirmed the appointment of a new Vice President, Mr Jason Pugh, and the re-appointment of Nominated Skilled Director, Ms Michelle Mandl, with the final Elected Director position subject to the outcome of the member vote, which is currently underway.

The Board also reviewed progress on major organisational initiatives. The State of the Nation WARR Report is nearing completion, with a planned release mid-year. Work is also advancing on WMRR’s brand refresh, website, and CRM system, which will see the visual WMRR brand contemporised.

The next Board meeting will be on Monday 22 June 2026, ahead of the AGM. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank the membership for your continued support and engagement during a dynamic and challenging period for the sector. We look forward to connecting with many of you at upcoming events in the months ahead, possibly at the AGM and ENVIRO in Adelaide!