The Research, Development and Demonstration grants program supports research, development and demonstration projects that can increase the quantity of recycled products being sold in Victoria.
Applications for Round 2 grants are now closed
The RD&D program is part of the $4.5 million Market Development for Recovered Resources Program. It aligns with the Victorian Government’s response to current issues in the recycling sector outlined in the Recycling Industry Strategic Plan, which sets out the pathway to a safe, resilient and efficient recycling system in Victoria. The plan highlights the need for government to invest in RD&D to build confidence and demand for products made with recovered materials.
Research findings will be shared to inform industry of opportunities to use recovered materials in manufacturing and support procurement of products using recycled content.
Achievements and progress
| Key milestone | Achievements | Timeframes |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Recovered Resources grant program |
In 2016, seven projects received $600,000 to conduct R&D to develop new markets for recovered glass fines and flexible plastics. Two of the seven projects received additional funding to carry out further laboratory testing and demonstration trials. |
Projects completed in 2018 |
| Targeted RD&D grants |
In 2018, three projects received $383,000 to conduct field trials to demonstrate R&D in a real-world application, supporting the path to commercialisation. |
Project must be completed by 2021 |
| RD&D grants – Round 1 |
Ten projects received $1.5million to conduct R&D and field trials to develop new markets for recovered materials. Project recipients announced December 2018. |
Projects must be completed by 2021 |
| RD&D grants – Round 2 | $1.2 million available for projects to conduct research and field trials to develop new markets for recovered materials. Applications close 31 May 2019. | Projects must be completed by 31 May 2021 |
Previously funded projects
For details of projects funded under previous funding rounds view the Projects funded by Research, Development and Demonstration grants page.
Thinking circular
SV is looking for projects that contribute to Victoria’s transition to a circular economy. This industry-led project was delivered in 2018 and shows how recycled glass bottles can be used in road base – in this instance in Melbourne’s heavily used and critical airport link, the Tullamarine Freeway.