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Container Deposit Scheme

The 'Container Deposit Scheme', also known as 'Return and Earn', allows you to earn a 10 cent refund on many approved containers.

Help the environment - and your wallet

The scheme was set up by the NSW Government to reduce the amount of recyclable waste going into the environment. Since it began in 2017, it has collected over 1.5 billion containers in NSW.

How it works

Simply save your eligible containers and take them to a Return and Earn reverse vending machine near you

  • Receive a 10cent refund per container
  • Up to 500 containers are accepted in a single visit
  • Refunds are paid by electronic transfers into nominated accounts
  • Alternatively, a refund voucher can be printed for use at Woolworths
  • Refunds can also be donated to selected charities
  • Containers should not be crushed or broken and need their labels attached
  • We suggest separating containers into plastic, glass, and metal groups before you go
  • Find out more at returnandearn.org.au

Eligible containers

  • Glass
  • Plastic
  • Aluminum
  • Steel
  • Or liquid paperboard (cartons)
  • Containers must be empty

Containers that aren’t accepted

  • Plain milk or milk substitute containers
  • Flavoured milk containers, 1 litre or more
  • Pure fruit or vegetable juice containers, 1 litre or more
  • Glass containers for wine and spirits
  • Casks (plastic bladders in boxes) for wine or water, 1 litre or more
  • Sachets for wine, 250 millilitres or more
  • Containers for cordials, or concentrated fruit and vegetable juices
  • Registered health tonics
  • Or check online whether a container is acceptable