Consultation open for container deposit plans

Victorian residents are encouraged to have their say on a proposed container deposit scheme. (Rui Matayoshi/Unsplash)

The state government is calling for Hume and Whittlesea community members to have their say on the design of a the new container deposit scheme [CDS], which is set to start in 2023.

Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the CDS will maximise the return of used drink cans, bottles and cartons for recycling.

“We’re now asking their views on our plan to make it easy for all Victorians to trade trash for cash and halve litter while we create new jobs,” she said.

“Victoria’s container deposit scheme will halve litter, providing a stream of clean recyclable materials for re-use in new products instead of going to landfill or polluting the environment and harming our wildlife.”

The plan also outlines the types of containers accepted in the scheme, a 10 cent refund for returning each container and the number of refund collection points and their operating hours.

Ms D’Ambrosio said the CDS will also give Victorian charities, community groups and sporting clubs a new way to raise funds.

“All charities and community groups can benefit from Victoria’s CDS,” she said.

“The CDS gives charity, community, and sports groups new ways to fundraise, and all Victorians an easy way to earn money while cleaning up our state.”

Consultation is open until Sunday, June 26.

Details: engage.vic.gov.au/container-deposit-scheme