Eligible containers can be exchanged for 10 cents at CDS points around Victoria.

The Victorian CDS is run jointly by VicReturn and TOMRA Cleanaway, which are the CDS operator for Greater Geelong.

Eligible containers

Most drink containers that are made from aluminium, glass, plastic, steel and liquid paperboard are eligible for a 10c refund when returned to a TOMRA Reverse Vending Machine. For a full list, visit the CDS Vic website.

Do not crush your containers or remove the labels as CDS scanners will need to identify the shape, label and barcode to register your refund.

These containers are eligible for CDS in Victoria.

These containers are not eligible for CDS in Victoria.

Cleaning containers before return

This is not necessary. Just make sure that your containers are empty of liquid.

You don't have to return bottles with lids, but if you do, please make sure they are attached, and not returned loose/on their own.

Your closest CDS refund point

A list of current collection points is available at the CDS website.

More collection points are planned to open in coming months.

Kerbside recycling

You can continue to put eligible containers in kerbside recycling.

Kerbside recycling will continue to play a key role in Victoria's recycling system and circular economy, particularly for containers that are typically consumed at home.

Opportunities for charities schools and community groups to participate

Not-for-profit and community groups may also have an opportunity to raise funds through the CDS, either by operating a collection point, hosting a container collection drive, or registering to receive donations when their community returns eligible containers.

CDS Vic will give not-for-profit organisations such as a charity, school, sports club or community organisations new ways to raise funds.

These organisations will be able to receive donations from the community, run a refund collection point, or host a container collection drive.

This could mean:

• these groups can seek donations of eligible drink containers from their community that can then be collected and redeemed for a refund from a refund point.
• charities, community groups and sports clubs can apply to the Zone Operators to set up and run refund points.
• Not - for - profit groups can apply to become a donation partner and receive donations from the community. This will encourage more recycling while ensuring individuals, local groups and charities can share in the cash benefits of recycling used cans, bottles and cartons.

Donor partner not - for - profit or community group registration

The donation partner registration system is available on the CDS Vic website.

Need to know more...

View a full list of questions or send an enquiry on the CDS Vic website, or ring 1800 237 842 (1800 CDS VIC).