Container Deposit Scheme
In Victoria, the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) means you can now exchange eligible drink containers and receive a 10c refund.
It’s a simple way to recycle and make a positive difference to our community and our environment.
Every eligible drink container returned contributes to our circular economy. By participating, you can:
- help create clean streams of recycling
- reduce litter
- earn change for yourself, your community and charities.
How does the Container Deposit Scheme work?
Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme provides a new recycling opportunity. Old containers become new ones, giving them new life and reducing litter and landfill.
A 10c refund is available for each eligible container returned.
Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme is simple:
- Collect eligible drink containers.
- Find your refund point.
- Earn or donate your refund.
- Containers are recycled.
Learn more at the CDS website.
What containers can be returned?
Most aluminium, glass, plastic and liquid paperboard (carton) drink containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres are eligible.
You can keep the lids on, as these are recycled too.
Look for the 10c mark on the drink container label near the barcode.
What can’t be returned?
Containers under 150 millilitres and over 3 litres cannot be returned.
There are also some drink containers that are not eligible for a refund. These include:
- plain milk containers of all sizes
- wine, spirits and cordial containers
- containers 1 litre or greater including flavoured milk, pure fruit or vegetable juice, cask wine or cask water.
Note: many of these containers can still be recycled in your kerbside bin.
If you have any questions about a container’s eligibility, visit the CDS website and do an eligible container search. You can enter the product name or barcode to search for eligible containers.
Find your nearest refund point
Hundreds of refund points are now open across Victoria. By August 2024 the network will have grown to more than 600 refund points.
To find a refund point near you, go to the interactive map on the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) website.
Fundraising and donations
Fundraising
The Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) enables charities and community groups to raise funds while making a positive environmental impact.
CDS Vic gives charities and community groups the opportunity to raise funds while making an impact. Charities can engage their supporters to donate their refunds or containers – and help the charity reach their fundraising goals.
To learn more visit the CDS website.
Donations
You can also donate your refunds to the charity of your choice. Donate your container refunds at your nearest refund point.