CANBERRA, Australia, Nov. 9 -- The Australian government has decided to ban the export of recyclable waste, phasing out the expensive and controversial practice starting in July next year.

The federal, state and territory environment ministers devised a timeline on Friday to stop sending plastic, paper, glass and tires internationally for recycling.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison flagged the ban after the last Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting in August, and yesterday's agreement has permitted the process to allow jurisdictions time to adjust.

"Ministers will further test the timetable with industry and local government, while also developing response strategies and undertaking independent market analysis," the agreement ...