Recycling is about more than what goes in the bin. It’s about keeping valuable materials in use, reducing waste and building a circular economy where products are remade rather than simply discarded.
One of the easiest ways to be part of that cycle is by returning eligible drink containers through CDS Vic.
Containers that are collected and recycled through CDS Vic are generally not contaminated by other waste products, unlike other recycling streams, such as kerbside waste. This means that they have the opportunity to be used in high value recycling into food grade glass, aluminium and plastics, as well as being used in other more industrial applications, like industrial products and building materials.
Whether you’re collecting a handful of containers at home or managing a larger volume through a school, sporting club or community group, there are many ways to take part in CDS Vic and help power Victoria’s circular economy.
Reverse vending machines (RVMs): Perfect for smaller volumes, RVMs scan and verify containers one by one before providing a refund or donation option. Refunds can be received electronically or as a supermarket voucher for money off your shop. You can also choose to donate your refund directly to a registered charity or community group.
Depots: Ideal for larger volumes, depots offer walk-in and drive-through services, making it easy to return multiple bags or trailer loads of containers and receive a refund in just a few minutes.
Over-the-counter (OTC) sites: At participating local businesses and organisations, these OTC refund points provide a convenient option for returning smaller numbers of containers.
Public bin baskets: Bin baskets and bin rails attached to public litter bins provide an easy way to dispose of your eligible containers while you’re out and about. If you don’t want to collect the 10 cent refund yourself, you can donate your empty container by leaving it in the CDS Vic bin basket for someone else to collect and cash in.
Gifting containers: Not planning to visit a refund point yourself? Why not pay it forward! Gift your eligible containers to family, neighbours, schools, sporting clubs or community groups who are fundraising through CDS Vic, so that they can collect the refund.
Whether you choose to keep your 10-cent refund, donate it to a local cause or simply make recycling part of your routine, every returned container plays a role in turning waste into a resource.
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