A cutting machine waste extraction apparatus is provided for a cutting machine that cuts a plate where the cutting machine waste extraction apparatus is supported adjacent a cutting area at a cutting table. The cutting machine produces waste at the cutting area during the cutting of the plate where the apparatus includes a ducting system having a first duct that receives the waste from the plate, and a second duct that receives the waste from the first duct. The first duct is movable along the length of the second duct and the second duct includes a lengthwise opening which is sealed by a flexible belt. The flexible belt is deformable from sealed contact with the second duct, adjacent a junction apparatus, where the junction apparatus provides a fluid connection between the first duct and the second duct.