Australian auto-dish brand Finish has announced a transformative step forward in sustainable packaging innovation with the launch of its first-ever paper-based, kerbside recyclable packagingfor thermoforming dishwashing tablets.

“An innovation set to help remove up to 48 tonnes of plastic each year from its tablet packaging, which is equivalent to removing over 1.8 m plastic water bottles from landfill,” according to Finish. “The new packaging is designed to help Australians conveniently make more sustainable choices as part of their everyday household routines.”

Developing a paper-based packaging solution for thermoforming dishwashing tablets required overcoming complex technical challenges. The project required more than four years of rigorous research and development, including over 55 production trials. One of the key complexities was maintaining the water-resistant packaging required to protect the stability of the tablets, whilst still ensuring recyclability. 

The new paper-based packs deliver the same durability and high-quality product standards the Finish brand is known for. Crucially, the packaging fully meets Australian recycling standards, offering shoppers a more sustainable choice without compromising on Finish’s cleaning power. 

“We are immensely proud of what this innovation represents – not just for Finish, but for the entire home care category,” said Malgorzata Herman, R&D Packaging Innovation Manager at Reckitt. “Despite the many scientific and technical challenges we encountered, our teams remained committed. Today, we deliver a paper-based solution that protects the product, protects performance, and supports consumers in making more sustainable choices. This is a true testament to perseverance, partnership, and our commitment to driving meaningful environmental progress.”

The launch marks a key milestone in Finish’s global mission to reduce plastic use and champion more sustainable packaging across its portfolio.

Laurie Ferland-Caouette, Head of Sustainability at Reckitt Australia, said the launch reflects the company’s continued commitment to packaging innovation and waste reduction: “Reducing plastic and improving recyclability is a key focus for Reckitt. This launch represents a real step forward for the entire homecare category in Australia, as we transition some of our top selling Finish packs to our new kerbside recyclable paper-based packaging. We anticipate 1 in 2 Finish tablet packs sold will now be on our paper-based packaging range, making it easier for Australians to make a more sustainable choice as part of their everyday routines.”

The packaging innovation coincides with the launch of a new tablet formulation across the Finish Ultimate Plus range, delivering Finish’s “best clean on tough stains with no pre-rinse needed”.

“With boosted cleaning power, Finish Ultimate Plus tackles stubborn grease and burnt-on stains to deliver Finish’s diamond standard™ of clean, helping Australians save time and effort without compromising on results. Together, the innovation reinforces that sustainability, and high performance can go hand in hand.”

Finish’s new recyclable paper-based packaging is available at leading grocery retailers across Australia, rolling out across select ranges.