Make a return
CDS Vic provides a 10 cent refund for every eligible drink container returned. Each bottle, can and carton that you return helps to divert valuable containers from landfill.
There are hundreds of refund points across Victoria, so look out for your local. The network has more than 600 refund points.
Get involved
In partnership with city councils, these baskets offer a new way to recycle containers on the go.
Are you a school that wants to get involved with CDS Vic? You will find lots of resources and guidance here.
Find out more about participating in Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.
Our partners
AFL Victoria and CDS Vic have teamed up to support local football clubs across the state in raising funds and promoting sustainability. Through this exciting partnership, CDS Vic is now the Official Recycling Partner of AFL Victoria until 2027.
From 2 June 2025, CDS Vic will dollar match the first five Landcare groups to raise $1,000 through the scheme.*
Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme is proud to partner with Sustainability Victoria's ResourceSmart Schools to empower Victorian schools to recycle and reduce waste.
CDS Vic is proud to announce its groundbreaking partnership with Tennis Victoria. This exciting initiative aims to reduce waste, promote recycling, and support grassroots tennis communities across the state to raise funds.
About us
See our commitment to fraud and corruption control, and how to get in touch if you have any concerns
How your school can get involved
By returning eligible containers, you’re not just fundraising - you’re embedding sustainability into your curriculum, developing students' leadership and problem-solving skills, while caring for the environment and raising funds for your school. It’s a win-win!
Read on to learn more about how you can get involved.
Getting started
Welcome to your fundraising journey. At this stage, you’ll need to get school leaders on board and nominate your waste champions to help. Sign up as a donation partner, create an action plan, conduct your waste audit, set your goals, and get collecting. As a donation partner, you’ll get access to fundraising support and invite-only workshops, including our partnership with the CERES School of Nature and Climate. We want to help you succeed.
Learn more:
- How to become a donation partner
- Action plan template
- Read more about the CDS Vic School Champions Program
Let's do this
It’s time for action! Here, you’ll want to decide which fundraising approach is best for you. Will you collect students’ containers at school, ask for families to drop theirs off, get local businesses involved, or all three? Now’s a great time to learn more about which drink containers are included in the scheme and where you can return them.
Learn more:
Spread the word
Now’s the time to let your school community know about all the amazing work you’re doing. Include updates on your fundraising in newsletters, on social media, and in assemblies. Regular reminders on what’s included and how to get involved will keep your supporters engaged – plus, you’ll want to share your wins.
Learn more:
Case studies
Kew High School
In Melbourne’s east, this school’s Eco Crew have a vision for a better world: they’re developing leadership skills and turning their empties into change.
Kardinia College and Wandin Yallock Primary School
These two incredible schools have been recognised as the winners of the CDS Vic Excellence Award at the ResourceSmart Schools Awards, having embedded our scheme into the daily life of their schools.
Newstead Primary School
Out near Castlemaine, this school’s community is all about sustainability. They’ve been fundraising for new playground equipment and reading resources.
