Families, schools and community groups across the Geelong region have helped Western Victoria reach a major sustainability milestone: over 1 billion eligible drink containers returned through Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) since the scheme’s launch in November 2023.
In Geelong alone, residents have returned more than 132,087,103 million eligible drink containers through a network of 24 refund points, resulting in over $13,208,710.30 going back into the pockets of local residents, charities, and community groups.
That’s roughly 487 containers for every person in Geelong and thousands donated to help local charities fund everything from new footy jumpers and school excursions to equipment.
This achievement marks a significant step forward in Victoria’s journey toward a circular economy and highlights the community’s commitment to sustainability, litter reduction, and everyday positive recycling behaviours.
Households, schools, businesses and community groups throughout the West Zone have enthusiastically embraced the scheme – turning recycling into a daily habit and a powerful force for positive change.
Their collective efforts have diverted more than 30,000 tonnes of material from landfill and returned $100 million in refunds to local residents and fundraising initiatives.
CDS Vic West Zone network operator TOMRA Cleanaway is proud to partner with local organisations across Geelong to deliver their refund point network. One example is the CDS Vic Breakwater Depot, operated by Scouts Victoria, which aims to provide fun, engaging and educational programs for young people across the state, led by passionate volunteers of all ages.
Part of this education includes teaching Scout members and local communities about the circular economy and recycling.
“This one billion milestone is a testament to the power of collective action,” TOMRA Cleanaway chief executive James Dorney said.
“Every bottle, can and carton returned in communities like Geelong helps keep local streets and waterways clean, reduces landfill, and provides a steady stream of funding for local charities and partners.”
The success of CDS Vic West Zone is driven by the people who show up every day – collecting their containers, supporting their local refund point, and championing the circular economy.
Fast Facts:
• 1 billion-plus containers collected in the West Zone since November 2023
• Equivalent to more than 30,000 tonnes of material diverted from landfill
• $100 million-plus refunded to residents and community groups
• More than 1000 local organisations across Victoria’s west supported through donations
• Geelong: 132,087,103 containers returned and $13,208,710.30 in refunds to local residents and groups
TOMRA Cleanaway remains committed to working alongside communities to deliver a safe, accessible and convenient refund point network, and to continue raising awareness to ensure even greater recycling success in the years ahead.
Help keep popular spots like the Eastern Beach Reserve cleaner for everyone.
Here’s to the next billion – powered by you.
To find your nearest refund point near Geelong, visit tomracleanaway.com.au/victoria/location-finder/#_map-of-refund-points
