Sam Hibbins to ask the Minister for Environment —
With reference to the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), what action is being taken to address the following issues raised with the scheme:
(1) Frequent break-down and closure of automated drop-off points.
(2) Refusal to accept containers at over-the-counter CDS drop-off points.
(3) CDS websites and network operator apps displaying incorrect or out-of-date information about the status of machines.
(4) The limited operating hours of some drop off points, especially for unstaffed machines, some closing as early as 3:30pm.
Response from the Minister for Environment
The Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) has a network of refund collection points that are managed by 3 Zone Operators across Victoria. There are currently more than 550 refund collection points in operation. The rollout of refund collection points is ongoing, with the full network expected to be in place by August 2024.
Victorians have responded overwhelmingly to the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme, CDS Vic, with more than 550 million containers returned. However, this strong community support has placed pressure on some refund points, causing them to unexpectedly reach capacity and temporarily close while arrangements are made to empty them or to fix technical problems. As more sites are added, this will reduce pressure across all refund points.
Zone Operators have contractual obligations that apply to all refund collection points to ensure the scheme is accessible and meets community needs. These obligations relate to operating requirements such as minimum opening hours, safety, accessibility, cleanliness, payment options and acceptance of eligible containers.
Recycling Victoria, as the regulator for the scheme, is in regular contact with Zone Operators to resolve issues that arise and identify ways to further strengthen the scheme.
This aims to ensure that:
Refund collection points are monitored effectively to identify when they are full.
Containers are collected more frequently, particularly at times of peak demand.
Over-the-counter refund collection points fully understand their obligations, including how to verify and document eligible containers.
The number of refund points available is sufficient to meet community needs.
Regulations have also been prepared to set minimum operating standards for refund collection points and minimum standards for community access to the scheme. These will include minimum opening hours and will be published in the coming months.
If a community member has experienced an issue with a specific refund collection point or app, I encourage them to share this information with the relevant Zone Operator. Community members can also contact Recycling Victoria directly at container.deposit@delwp.vic.gov.au.
