Make a return
There are hundreds of refund points across Victoria, so look out for your local. The network has more than 600 refund points.
Get involved
We’re excited to announce a partnership between Scouts Victoria and CDS Vic, designed to reward Scouts and Scout Groups for their commitment to container recycling.
To celebrate the upcoming first anniversary of the scheme's launch, CDS Vic will launch an interactive installation at Scienceworks to educate young Victorians about recycling.
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
Victorians - we love to recycle!
Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) is designed to complement 20 years of successful kerbside recycling by capturing all those drink containers we most commonly consume when we're away from home. These are the type of containers that often end up discarded in the street and can make their way into our parks and waterways.
There are three different types of refund points where you can return your eligible containers. So if you've got a load of containers ready to return but are not sure which type of refund point is best to use, let's run through how they all work.
Depot
Got a trailer load or multiple large bags of containers? Head to your nearest depot where you can walk-in or drive-through to get your drink containers counted and refunded on the spot. Depots can accept small loads but are best for large loads.
Refund options from depots include electronic payment or cash, or you can choose to donate your refund to one of our registered charities or community groups.
Here's a video that has information about using depots.
Over the Counter
In some areas, small businesses or organisations provide an over-the-counter service. These are a good option for when you only have a few containers to return. Refund options from an over-the-counter provider include electronic payment, cash or vouchers, or you can choose to donate your refund to one of our registered charities or community groups.
Here's a video that has information about returning your containers over-the-counter.
Reverse Vending Machine (RVM)
Got a smaller bag or a small bucket full of containers? Hit up your nearest RVM.
Feed your containers into the machine with the barcodes facing up so they can be scanned and verified. You can leave the lids on, as we recycle these too!
Keep in mind that our RVMs don’t have cash. You can get a refund electronically through the CDS Vic app, or you can choose to receive a supermarket voucher, or select a charity on the RVM screen and donate your refund to one of our registered charities or community groups.
Here's a video with more information about using RVMs.
