Container Deposit Scheme Victoria

Person reading about what can returned through the container deposit scheme

All Victorians – including families, community groups, charities, multi unit dwellings and more – can bring their eligible beverage containers to a refund point, and receive 10 cents in exchange for it. This refund can be kept or donated to one of the donation partners.

To participate it's an easy three step process:

You can learn more about the program by visiting the State Government website.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of containers can I return?

You can return most containers between 150mL and 3 litres that are made of:

  • aluminium

  • glass

  • plastic

  • liquid paperboard (carton)

Look for the 10c mark on the drink container label. It is often located near the barcode.

 

Eligble Containers.PNG 

What am I NOT allowed to return for a 10c refund?

There are some drink containers that are not eligible for a refund. Containers that are less than 150mL and greater than 3 litres are usually excluded. 

You are NOT allowed to return:

  • Plain milk containers of all sizes, including plant-based milk substitutes.
  • Concentrated or undiluted cordial or syrup containers.
  • Wine or pure spirits bottles made of glass, including single serve formats.
  • Sachets (soft plastic or foil) above 250mL that contained wine.
  • Containers 1 litre or greater that contained flavoured milk, pure fruit or vegetable juice, cask wine or cask water.
  • Registered health tonics, including small probiotic shots less than 150mL.
  • No container under 150ml can be redeemed.

You can still recycle many of these containers in your kerbside bin collection.

not eligble containers.PNG

How do I prepare my containers?

Keep the label on and don't crush the container. 

Scanners inside vending machines will identify the shape, label and barcode of each container to ensure it is eligible for a refund. Broken bottles, crushed cans and bottles without labels will not be eligible for a refund.

Containers must be empty

You don't have to rinse each container, but it must be empty and the outside clean enough that the barcode can be scanned by the vending machine.

Leave the lids on

They will become part of the circular economy too and will be made into new products.

Check what containers are eligible

Where do I deposit my containers?

Visy operates all the refund sites available in Yarra Ranges. You can find your nearest refund point on the interactive map

 

 

 

How can I claim my refund?

There will be multiple ways to receive your 10 cent refund. You can either keep your refund, or support your favourite charity or community organisation with a donation.

Learn more about the refund options

 

Who manages the Container Deposit Scheme?

Council is not involved in setting up or managing the container deposit scheme.
 
For any enquiries you will need to contact Visy.
 
Visy is the network operator for our region. They are responsible for setting up and managing the refund collection points in Yarra Ranges.
 
VicReturn is the scheme coordinator that will manage the finance and administration aspects of the state-wide program.

How can I become a refund collection point?

Before becoming a refund collection point operator you will need to check whether a planning permit is required by contacting Council's Planning Team on 1300 368 333.

In addition you can become a refund collection point operator if you are:

  • a business
  • a non for profit organisation 
  • a community or sporting group

To submit your interest you will need to complete a form through Visy and check with Council's Planning Team.

How do I become a donation partner?

You can register your interest to become a donation partner if you are a:

  • community group
  • sporting clubs
  • not-for-profit organisation
  • business

If you would like to receive donations please visit Visy's website to learn more.

 

 

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