After a long wait, a proposal for Victoria’s container deposit scheme has finally been revealed, but it could see the price of canned drinks increase.
SHANNON DEERY,
November 2, 2020
Herald Sun
A proposed model for Victoria’s long-awaited cash-for-cans scheme has finally been revealed ahead of a planned 2023 rollout.
Under the proposal Victorians will recoup 10 cents for every can, bottle or carton swapped at vending machines, drive through depots, in shops and at pop up collection points.
The state government’s preferred model will see responsibility for the operation and governance of the Container Deposit Scheme split, in a move it says will increase transparency.
It would also incentivise efficiency and maximise the number of containers collected.
The proposal would see a scheme co-ordinator managing the operation of the scheme in conjunction with the beverage industry.
A network operator would be responsible for managing collection points, refunding Victorians and recycling collected containers.
The scheme could offer a cash boost to community groups, charities and sporting clubs who opt to operate refund collection points.
Under the plan the price of drinks will almost certainly increase.
In the first 12 months of operation drink prices increased by 7.7 cents in New South Wales and 9.45 cents in Queensland.
Victoria is the only state or territory without a container deposit scheme but both the government, and state opposition, have committed to introducing one.
Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the scheme would reduce waste, provide opportunities for local businesses and community groups and create hundreds of jobs.
Ms D’Ambrosio has urged Victorians to provide feedback on the proposed model.
“This is an exciting opportunity for all Victorians to play a role in how our new CDS will work to improve our recycling system, cut waste and reduce litter in our environment,” she said.
“Cash for cans and bottles provides a great incentive to do the right thing and dispose of litter correctly for the sake of our environment and the benefit of all Victorians.”
The State Government has been under pressure to introduce a cash-for-cans scheme.
But before deciding whether to introduce a container deposit scheme it advises it wanted to be sure the benefits would outweigh the costs.
It’s estimated by 2046 Victoria will produce 40 per cent more waste than it did in 2017–18.
Initiatives also include $100 million to boost the waste and recycling industry,
For more information and to have your say about the cash-for-cans scheme go to engage.vic.gov.au/container-deposit-scheme.
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