9
tonnes/day
design capacity
- Location
- Maroochydore City, Sunshine Coast, Australia
- Client
- Sun Central, Sunshine Coast Council
- Segment
- Cities
- Launch
- 2021
The brief
The Sunshine Coast Council launched the Maroochydore City Centre project in 2016 as a model for sustainable urban living. Envac’s Automated Waste Collection System (AWCS) was selected as a key component of this visionary development. The project represents Australia’s first large-scale integration of underground automated waste collection. It aligns with the city’s ambition to become the country’s most sustainable urban community.
By 2035, the city centre will include 4,000 new homes, commercial hubs, and cultural facilities. The system eliminates the need for traditional waste trucks and visible bins. Waste from residential, commercial, and public areas is deposited into inlets connected to an underground pipe network.
2
general waste, mixed recyclables
4,000
residential units connected (on completion)
2.3
pipe length (km) in stage 1
Background
The development commenced in 2016 with the installation of underground piping for the automated waste collection system, followed by the construction of the collection facility and the installation of advanced equipment. Envac’s team of experts collaborated closely with local Australian partners, uniting Korea’s cutting-edge technology and extensive experience with local knowledge and capability. The first construction phase, including the collection station, was completed in 2019. Commissioning and commercial operation began in 2021. As new buildings are completed, they are gradually connected to the system network. Full development of the Maroochydore City Centre is planned for completion by 2041.
Following a high-profile completion ceremony that garnered considerable attention from Australian media and the local community, Envac entered into an agreement with the facility’s maintenance and operations provider and continues to oversee the system’s successful operation.
As the pioneer of automated waste collection technology and a global leader in sustainable waste management solutions, Envac takes pride in delivering and operating Australia’s first system of its kind. This milestone significantly contributes to the country’s vision for sustainable urban development. Envac remains committed to continual technological advancement and operational excellence, maintaining an unwavering focus on efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
“I think the city has a really strong focus on smart city technology, and certainly the technology that we have implemented here with the automated waste collection system and the work that we do with Envac is absolutely an Australian first, and it really demonstrates the possibility of what a future city can look like.”
Amanda Yeates, Former CEO, SunCentral Maroochydore Australia
Smarter and more sustainable waste collection
Public litter bins for general waste and recyclables are cleared daily without the need for traditional waste trucks. The system’s sealed design eliminates odours and deters pests, removing the need for visible wheelie bins. In commercial buildings, cleaning staff deposit waste into conveniently located inlets on the ground floor. Depending on usage, waste is automatically transferred from these buildings up to four times daily.
By moving waste through an underground pipe network rather than across busy streets, the system helps reduce the number of heavy collection vehicles in the city centre. This contributes to a quieter, cleaner and safer environment for residents, workers and visitors alike.
The project demonstrates how automation supports cleaner, quieter, and safer city environments. It highlights the potential of smart infrastructure to reduce CO₂ emissions and operational costs. Maroochydore now stands as a national benchmark for sustainable urban development powered by Envac technology.
Team Australia
Envac’s local operations are led by Envac Team Australia, a dedicated group responsible for maintaining, monitoring and improving the Maroochydore system. The team combines international expertise with local knowledge to ensure the system operates reliably and efficiently.
Operations Manager Ian Pritchard, who was part of the original installation team, oversees day-to-day operations and system performance. Using advanced monitoring tools, Ian and his team can manage and optimise the system remotely, ensuring issues are addressed promptly and performance remains consistent.
In addition to operations, the team regularly engages with the community. Ian often leads educational tours for schools and local groups, sharing insights into the system’s technology and the importance of sustainable waste management in modern urban environments.
I really appreciate the forefathers of this city who thought ahead and said, ‘Let’s do this and commit to this, because now the community will benefit from this for years to come.
Ian Pritchard Operations Manager, Envac Australia
A model for sustainable urban development
The Maroochydore City Centre system demonstrates how automation and underground infrastructure can support sustainable growth in urban areas. Reducing waste collection traffic and minimising environmental impact plays an important role in supporting the city’s long-term sustainability goals.
Envac Team Australia continues to collaborate with local authorities and partners to maintain system performance and explore opportunities for further innovation — focusing on efficiency, safety, and community benefit as the city continues to evolve.
I’m very proud the Sunshine Coast is leading the change in Australia with this innovative waste collection solution and I’m sure other cities and major urban projects will soon be following in our footsteps. As well as making our city heart more attractive, this technology has a track record of increasing recycling rates, so our natural environment will benefit too.
Mark Jamieson Former Mayor, Sunshine Coast
Related Videos
Amanda Yeates – Sunshine Coast Australia
Amanda Yeates explains why Maroochydore embraced Envac: a proven, first-of-its-kind-in-Australia system with smart alerts that prevent overflowing bins. She invites visitors to see it in action—and argues this brave shift boosts sustainability, improves liveability, and shapes the future of urban waste.
Ian Pritchard Operations Manager, Envac Australia
At the heart of Maroochydore City Centre’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is a cutting-edge waste management system that quietly yet efficiently keeps the city clean and green. Overseeing this vital operation is Ian Pritchard, a dedicated professional at Envac, the company behind ensuring the City Centre remains a model for smart urban living.
Today Show Australia – Queensland trash revolution
Australia got its first underground automated waste collection system from Envac in the Maroochydore City Centre on the Sunshine Coast. This project is one of the ambitious developments that make the new Maroochydore City one of the smartest cities in the country. It is another step towards achieving the vision for the Sunshine Coast Council to be Australia’s most sustainable region. In the interview with Today Show Australia, the significance of reducing pressure on landfill, promoting recycling, and building a smart city is featured. Also, Envac’s Operations Engineer, Scott Mackie, explains how the system works in the interview. Watch now and share your thoughts with us.
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