Campaspe Shire Council has partnered with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme to install 100 diversion baskets at public locations across the shire for eligible drink containers.
The baskets provide a convenient way for community members to ensure eligible containers are recycled, while also offering an easy way for those who wish to collect and return eligible containers for the 10 cent refund offered by CDS Vic, to do so.
Anyone can deposit an eligible container into a basket, and anyone is welcome to claim it.
Since the introduction of the scheme in November 2023, eligible drink containers have increasingly been removed from public bins by people seeking the 10c refund.
While this has supported recycling, it has also resulted in damage to bin surrounds, lids and internal components, as well as exposing people rummaging in the bins to potential injury from discarded items.
Campaspe Shire Deputy Mayor Tony Marwood said the trial offered a practical way to reduce bin damage and improve waste diversion, while encouraging responsible and safe recycling behaviour among community members.
“Diversion baskets make it easier for people to do the right thing when they’re out and about,” he said.
“They provide a safe, clearly marked place for eligible containers only, helping to protect public infrastructure while ensuring valuable recyclables are kept out of landfill.”
Since its introduction, CDS Vic has delivered strong local results in Campaspe Shire, with more than 37.6 million eligible containers returned and over $3.7 million refunded to the community.
In the January to March 2026 quarter alone, more than 4.6 million containers were returned, generating $466,761.80 in refunds.
Scheme co-ordinator VicReturn chief executive Matt Davis said the bin baskets would help capture more containers in public spaces, which had been challenging.
“When you’re out and about, look for a CDS Vic bin basket. Leave your eligible containers for someone else or take them with you to return at your nearest refund point,” he said.
Clear signage will be installed on each diversion basket to explain how the system works and what items can be deposited.
Council will monitor usage and community feedback throughout the trial period, May 2026 to February 2027, to help inform future rollout decisions.
VicReturn is providing financial support for the rollout of the baskets, while Campaspe Shire Council will share monitoring data and contribute to statewide promotion of the project.
18°C