Container deposit scheme for Victoria announced

Victoria will adopt a container deposit scheme by 2023 and a new four bin kerbside collection, as part of a plan to reduce waste going to landfill by 80 percent in ten years in a massive overhaul of the state’s waste and recycling system by the Andrews Labor Government.

The announcement was made on Monday as the first in a suite of new policies under the Recycling Victoria package.

The $129 million of initiatives to reform kerbside recycling includes the roll out of four colour-coded bins, including a purple glass only bin, to homes across the state to better sort waste, recyclables and organics.

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) welcomes the Government’s announcement which will bring the state into line with the rest of the country.

MAV Deputy President (Rural), Cr Ruth Gstrein, said the MAV has been a strong advocate for a container deposit scheme in Victoria and will work with the State on the design of the scheme to ensure best outcomes for communities and councils.

“We welcome the State’s commitment of $129 million to support councils to roll out the four-bin system across Victoria.

“We look forward to more information on how this funding will be allocated, noting that service models will need to be tailored to meet different community needs.

“It will be critical to provide councils with funding and implementation support as well as timeframes that enable appropriate infrastructure to be put in place.”