The Victorian Government is encouraging all Victorians to have their say on how a state-wide Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) would work best to improve our recycling system and reduce litter pollution in our environment.

Victorians are being asked to provide feedback on the proposed model for the CDS, which will be rolled out by 2023 and create hundreds of jobs across the state.

The CDS is a ‘cash for cans’ system where empty cans, small bottles and cartons can be dropped off at collection points for a refund.

Under the proposed model, there would be split responsibility for the operation and governance – this design maximises the number of bottles collected at the lowest cost for scheme delivery, as well as ensuring strong transparency and accountability.

The CDS network would include a variety of collection points – such as automated reverse vending machines in public places, drive through depots, over the counter in shops and pop up collection points at events and festivals.

A CDS is a significant opportunity for community groups, charities and sporting clubs to share the benefits and raise much needed funds, including operating refund collection points and fundraising opportunities.

Businesses will also have opportunities to operate collection sites across the state – creating new jobs in transport and logistics and through support services like technology management, community education, auditing and reporting. Similar schemes in New South Wales and Queensland have created between 600 and 700 jobs.

Drink cans and bottles make up almost half of all the litter in Victoria. A CDS would significantly reduce this litter and help ensure a clean stream of recyclable materials can be re-used in new products instead of going to landfill or polluting the environment and harming our wildlife.

The introduction of a CDS is part of the Government’s $300 million Recycling Victoria program introducing a new approach to reduce, reuse and recycle our state’s waste.

As part of the consultation process, the Government is encouraging feedback from industry on the scheme’s operation and governance model. For more information and to have your say visit: engage.vic.gov.au/container-deposit-scheme

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“The CDS will reduce waste, provide opportunities for local businesses and community groups and create hundreds of jobs.”

“This is an exciting opportunity for all Victorians to play a role in how our new CDS will work to improve our recycling system, cut waste and reduce litter in our environment.”

 “Cash for cans and bottles provides a great incentive to do the right thing and dispose of litter correctly for the sake of our environment and the benefit of all Victorians.”