$2.1m refunded to Victorians through container deposit scheme

By Djembe Archibald

Nov 16, 2023

More than 20 million containers have been returned through Victoria’s new container deposit scheme in the past two weeks.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

In week two of the scheme, 11.1 million containers were returned, eclipsing the 10.2 million in week one.

Aluminium cans make up more than half of all returns, while plastic containers make up nearly a third.

Refunded: More than $2.1 million directly back in the pockets of Victorians in two weeks. Photo by Djembe Archibald

Since opening on November 1, the scheme has seen continuous support in regional Victoria, according to VicReturn chief executive Jim Round.

“It is fantastic people have welcomed Victoria’s new container deposit scheme with such enthusiasm, returning 21.3 million containers since the scheme began,’’ he said.

“That’s more than $2.1 million directly back in the pockets of Victorians in two weeks.”

Clean up: More than 20 million containers have been returned by Victorians through the new container deposit scheme Photo by Djembe Archibald

Monday, November 6, was the biggest day so far, with more than two million containers returned It was closely followed by Saturday, November 11, with 1.91 million returns and Saturday, November 4 with 1.85 million returns.

To ensure the scheme’s accessibility, there is a mix of refund points available across the state, including reverse vending machines, depots, over-the-counter refund points and pop-ups to cater for one-off events such as music festivals and large sporting events.

Advice: What can and can’t be returned. Photo by Djembe Archibald

Frequently asked questions

What can be deposited? Most aluminium, glass, plastic and liquid paperboard/ carton drink containers between 150ml and three litres are eligible. To be sure, look for the 10c return label on the bottle.

What cannot be deposited? All other drink containers including wine and spirit bottles and milk containers.

How can refunds be received? Victorians can opt to keep their refund in the form of cash, a retail voucher, an electronic refund or donate it to a charity or community organisation registered with the scheme.

Where is Shepparton’s container waste deposit site? Foott depot, 10 Carroll Rd, Shepparton East, near Shepparton Volkswagen.

When is it open? Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 8am to 4pm. It is closed on Sundays.

Is the Shepparton site wheelchair accessible? Yes it is.

Foott asks that containers are washed before being brought into the deposit scheme site.

For information, head to the container deposit scheme Victoria website at cdsvic.org.au