On November 1, 2023, the Victorian Government launched the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) to significantly reduce litter in the state and provide financial benefits to its residents.

The scheme allows people to return eligible drink cans, bottles, and cartons for a 10-cent refund at various refund points across Victoria. This initiative is expected to reduce litter by up to half and create over 600 jobs statewide.

The scheme offers multiple ways for people to return containers, including reverse vending machines, depots, over-the-counter sites, and pop-up refund points. Participants can choose to receive their refunds in cash, retail vouchers, or electronic refunds. Additionally, Victorians have the option to donate their refunds to registered charities or community organisations.

VicReturn serves as the Scheme Coordinator, and Zone Operators Return-It, TOMRA Cleanaway, and Visy oversee the refund points and ensure proper recycling. These operators are responsible for establishing a network of refund points based on population density in different areas.

The scheme is part of the government's $515 million investment in transforming the state's waste and recycling system. It aligns with the goal of diverting 80 percent of all materials away from landfill by 2030.

For more information and to find nearby refund points, businesses and residents can visit cdsvic.org.au.