Following extensive independent consultation with government, anti-littering groups, industry and environmental groups, the Butt Littering Trust model was adopted and funded by BAT Australia for an initial two year trial period.
One million dollars was allocated for successful project grant applications, supported by additional funding for all ongoing costs associated with the management of the Butt Littering Trust.
Butt Free Australia was wholly independent in its operation and decision-making. The Trust was managed by Trustees, just as a Committee of Management or Board manages any other not-for-profit organisation.
The Butt Littering Trust was managed under contract by Nolan ITU (which later became Hyder Consulting) in Sydney for the first five years. An office was then established in Melbourne in 2008, staffed full time by the Trust's Chief Executive Officer and Project Manager.
The Butt Littering Trust rebranded as Butt Free Australia in December 2009. The new trading name served to support clearer communication and further strengthen the Trust's position as the leading advocate in cigarette butt litter management.
This positioning was further strengthened in August 2010 when a public company limited by guarantee, also known as Butt Free Australia was appointed as the corporate trustee for the Butt Littering Trust.
The company was formed for the sole purpose of acting as trustee of the Trust and undertaking the charitable activities described in the Trust Deed. This move streamlined the day-to-day management and operation of the Trust while continuing to reinforce its role and independence. The (former) individual Trustees were the directors of the company.
On 21 September 2011 Butt Free Australia, as trustee of Butt Littering Trust, announced that the Trust will cease operation at the end of 2011.
The decision was made on 16 September 2011, following advice from British American Tobacco Limited that they where not in a position to continue financial support of the Trust beyond the end of the year.
Since its establishment in 2003 Butt Littering Trust had developed a considerable body of knowledge and expertise in the area of butt litter and butt littering. With the announcement that Butt Free Australia will cease operation, the opportunity to transfer this body of knowledge and expertise, along with the assets that support it, to a likeminded organisation or organisations was identified.
As a result, Butt Free Australia conducted an Expression of Interest process for 'Continuing the Task - Reducing Butt Littering Nationally'. Expressions of Interest closed on Wednesday 19 October 2011 - 5.00pm (EDST).
On 8 November 2011 Butt Free Australia, as trustee for Butt Littering Trust, announced KESAB environmental solutions as the successful recipient and all enquiries should be directed to John Phillips Executive Director KESAB on 08 8234 7255.
