Have your say on Victoria’s new container deposit scheme

Maroondah City Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s commitment to introducing a container deposit scheme (CDS) in 2023 and is encouraging the community to add their input into the proposed design of the new scheme.

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

Victorians are being asked to provide feedback on the proposed model for the CDS, which will be rolled out by 2023 and is expected to create hundreds of jobs across the state. Consultation closes, 11.59 pm Monday 30 November 2020.

You can have your say by either responding to the discussion paper survey or

Mayor of Maroondah Cr Kylie Spears said a CDS would increase beverage container recycling and reduce litter in Victoria.

“The Victorian Government is asking all Victorians to have their say on how a statewide container deposit scheme would work best to improve our recycling system and reduce litter pollution in our environment,” Cr Spears said.

“This is your chance to influence what will be included under the scheme, how much of a refund will be offered, who should be responsible for governing, administering and delivering the CDS and how the community might access refund points,” she said.

A parliamentary inquiry last year into recycling and waste management found a container deposit scheme could reduce litter and boost the Victorian Government’s budget by about half a billion dollars over 10 years.

“Council has long supported the idea of a container deposit scheme as part of our advocacy for greater investment in the recycling industry and better recovery of recyclables,” Cr Spears said.

“Drink cans and bottles account for almost half of Victoria’s litter. Using a cash reward creates greater incentive for people to return empty drink containers to drop-off points, increasing the amount recovered via the scheme,” she said.

For further information on the initiative, visit the