The ACT Container Deposit Scheme aims to encourage recycling and reduce litter and waste in landfill.
The scheme allows consumers to return eligible, empty drink containers and receive a 10-cent refund per item. Residents can claim the refund themselves or donate it to charity.
Eligible drink containers are those commonly found in the litter stream. Most drink containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres are eligible for a refund under the scheme.
Ineligible containers are those not usually found in litter, including all plain milk, flavoured milks 1 litre and over, pure juice drinks, cordial, wine and spirit bottles.
The scheme offers consumers a variety of different types of collection points across the Territory. These sites include Cash-Back Depots, Drop-and-Go Pods, Reverse Vending Machines and Drop-and-Go points in selected IGA, Vinnies and Salvos shop fronts.
For locations and further information please visit the ACT Container Deposit Scheme website.
Proposed expansion of the ACT Container Deposit Scheme
The ACT Government is committed to growing the circular economy in Canberra, where waste is designed out and materials are kept in use at their highest value.
The ACT Government is considering the inclusion of the following items into the schemes:
- water (inflatable sachets and other packaging types: 1-3 litres
- fruit and vegetable juice (at least 90% juice and all container types): 1-3 litres
- flavoured milk (all container types): 1-3 litres
- concentrated fruit and vegetable juice intended to be diluted before consumption (all container types): 150 millilitres to 3 litres
- cordial (undiluted and all material types): 150 millilitres to 3 litres
- wine: 150 millilitres to 3 litres
- spirits: 150 millilitres to 3 litres
- flavoured alcoholic beverages with a wine base: 1-3 litres
Note: The ACT Container Deposit Scheme only recognises containers supplied into the ACT within Australia. The proposal supports a national agreement to expand and harmonise the scope of container deposit schemes by the end of 2025. Introducing a harmonised expanded scope of containers makes it easier for businesses that supply into multiple states and territories.
Watch the lifecycle videos to see what happens to your return aluminium cans, glass bottles and plastic bottles.
Impact calculator
The ACT Container Deposit Scheme impact calculator is a interactive tool that lets you see the water, energy and landfill savings you make when you recycle your eligible containers through the scheme.
ACT Government documents
