Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) has partnered with Foodbank Victoria to allow residents to donate their beverage container refunds directly to food relief initiatives.
The three-month program runs until the middle of October. Under the partnership, individuals returning eligible drink containers can donate their 10-cent refunds at any CDS Vic refund point.
This includes selecting the charity option on screens at reverse vending machines, choosing the organisation as a payout option within the CDS Vic mobile application, or requesting a donation at over-the-counter depots.
Every five donated containers generate enough funding to secure one meal for individuals experiencing food insecurity in Victoria.
The partnership comes as demand for food assistance in the state has risen by 10 per cent over the past six months, driven by ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
Foodbank Victoria currently provides food relief to approximately 76,000 people daily, which accounts for more than 70 per cent of the state’s total food relief distribution.
Since its inception, the broader container deposit scheme has processed over 3.3 billion containers, returning more than $330 million to participants, including $3.7 million directed to charities and community organisations.
“Victorians have already donated millions in container refunds to support charities and community groups through CDS Vic, showing the incredible community spirit behind the scheme,” said Matt Davis, CEO of scheme coordinator Vic Return.
“Foodbank’s partnership with CDS Vic makes it easy for Victorians to turn their empties into something that truly matters – meals for people doing it tough,” said Dave McNamara, Foodbank Victoria CEO.
