The waste and recycling sector is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic global sectors, and the professional recognition of the industry and those who work within it is an essential part of this development. This paper compares the relative professionalisation of the waste management sector in the UK against that of Queensland (Australia). Whilst the literature on professionalisation is extensive, there is a growing body of work which questions the parameters required for professionalisation to occur. The size and perceived levels of development of the industry, the supporting measures such as the provision of industry associations, training and academia (including research) are clearly differentiated between these two countries, and whilst existing literature provides the corresponding link to the differences in professionalisation between countries, several factors remain unaccounted for. Whilst this paper identifies the critical elements under which the UK's waste management sector achieved professionalisation. It is concluded that the waste management sector in Queensland will not progress to professionalisation under the same characteristics as those in the UK; rather professionalisation will be achieved under a new model.