IMPACT Community Services has been a vital part of the Bundaberg community for over 45 years, fostering social inclusion and creating meaningful employment opportunities. In 2002, we took over the Material Recovery Facility (MRF), expanding our mission to address environmental challenges alongside social inclusion. The IMPACT Recycling Hub was established as a natural extension of this, providing a platform for supported employment and environmental stewardship.
At the core of our recycling hub is our focus on creating meaningful job opportunities for people with disabilities or those facing barriers to employment. Our employees, many of whom are supported through the NDIS Support in Employment program, are directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the MRF. Their work ranges from sorting recyclables to assisting customers, with on-the-job training and support to help them develop skills, build confidence, and find purpose in their work.
Taking over the MRF in 2002 allowed us to merge two vital community objectives: environmental responsibility and social inclusion. By integrating supported employment into the MRF’s operations, we ensure that individuals who may otherwise struggle to find work have access to job opportunities that contribute both to their personal development and the well-being of the community.
The hub offers the following benefits to supported employees:
Since taking over the MRF, IMPACT Community Services has prioritised creating pathways for inclusive employment. Our IMPACT Recycling Hub not only contributes to Bundaberg’s sustainability efforts but also promotes community growth by offering:
By managing the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) since 2002, IMPACT Community Services has been able to integrate environmental sustainability with social responsibility. Our recycling programs not only protect the environment by reducing landfill waste but also provide meaningful employment for individuals who benefit from support in the workplace.
Every container recycled and every item processed at the MRF represents more than just environmental progress—it reflects personal growth, community engagement, and the empowerment of individuals who are now able to contribute to a cleaner, greener future for Bundaberg.
When residents and businesses participate in our recycling programs, they’re not only helping the environment but also supporting inclusive employment and community development. The hub demonstrates how employment, sustainability, and social inclusion work hand-in-hand to create a brighter future for Bundaberg.