Rickman Ralph

Rickman Ralph has been the architect of numerous community-based recycling systems across Australia and has influenced how we manage waste disposal and recycling. As a result of Rick’s leadership, Australians now embrace recycling as an essential means of protecting our natural environment.

Rick finished Year 12 at Brighton Grammar in 1973. By 1981, he was responsible for the implementation, development and management of the iconic Comalco ‘Cash for Cans’ program both in Australia and internationally. More than 35% of all Australian schools participated in the program, which sowed the seeds for various school-based recycling programs. Rick initiated Australia’s first kerbside recycling programs and, with Victoria Police, introduced the ban on glass bottles at football grounds. In 1992, he was responsible for introducing recycling programs in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Swaziland.

Rick has been the Chairman, Past President and General Manager of Keep Australia Beautiful. With Dame Phyllis Frost, he established Clean Up and other anti-litter programs. In 2007, he founded the Waste Recycling Industry Association of Queensland, representing more than 90 organisations.

Rick has sat on many government ministerial committees responsible for waste and recycling policy initiatives. After the widespread devastation caused by the 2011 floods and the 2013 cyclone in Queensland, he coordinated the industry-led clean-up.

Rick’s other great passion is Mates4Mates, a not-for-profit that supports current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel who are wounded, injured or ill as a result of their service, and their families. Rick was elected Chairman in 2017. He has received the Chief of Army Medallion in recognition for services by his industry to ex- and current service members.