Get ready to shine a spotlight on Brisbane’s brightest waste warriors! The 2025 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards are back and nominations open on 30 June.

Proudly presented by Brisbane City Council and Brisbane Sustainability Agency, the annual WasteSMART Awards celebrate the incredible individuals, businesses, schools, and community groups who are leading the charge towards a cleaner, more sustainable city.

With over $4,000 in prizes up for grabs, the awards recognise everyday heroes who are helping Brisbane become a national leader in waste reduction and sustainable living.

“Whether it’s composting at home, innovating in business, or teaching the next generation how to recycle right, WasteSMART champions are everywhere in our community,” said Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

“These awards are about recognising and celebrating those efforts.”

This year, the awards return with 12 diverse categories, including the popular WasteSMART Schools Award, the Business Award, and the People’s Choice – where the public can vote for their favourite finalist.

Plus, 2025 introduces a Green Waste Award, recognises efforts in green waste recovery, recycling, and education programs, celebrating innovative initiatives that raise awareness and transform garden and park materials into valuable resources.

Nominations open Monday 30 June and close Friday 29 August 2025. It’s free to enter and open to all Brisbane local government area residents and organisations making a positive impact on the city’s waste footprint.

“We know Brisbane is full of WasteSMART leaders, now’s the time to give them the recognition they deserve,” said Tracy Melenewycz, CEO of Brisbane Sustainability Agency.

“If you know someone making a difference, or you’re proud of what you’ve achieved, we want to hear from you.”

Last year’s awards saw over 400 nominations, showcasing everything from community composting collectives to clever reuse innovations and sustainability educators going above and beyond.

How to nominate

To nominate yourself or someone else, visit wastesmartawards.com.au.

Stay tuned to the website and social media for details around nominations, finalist announcements, and voting details for the People’s Choice Award.

Let’s celebrate those making Brisbane WasteSMART – one bin, one idea, and one action at a time.