The Victorian Government’s new container deposit scheme (CDS) is set to start in 2023. The CDS will maximise the return of used drink cans, bottles and cartons for recycling, and reduce Victoria’s litter by up to half.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio announced the final design of the scheme yesterday, with responsibilities for running the scheme split between a Scheme Coordinator and Network Operators.
The model was chosen following detailed analysis of schemes operating internationally and interstate and was supported by 85 per cent of participants.
The National Retail Association commends the Victorian Government for engaging industry and the community and charity sector throughout the consultation process and was pleased to join the Victorian CDS Advisory Group last year.
“Our members have hundreds of years of accrued experience in what does and doesn’t work in the real-world, and we welcome the opportunity to work closely with government to ensure the schemes’ success.”
The National Retail Association applauds the Victorian Government for making the model as nationally consistent as possible in an effort to reduce duplication and complexity for retailers operating in multiple jurisdictions.
“Maintaining consistency between the States and Territories is paramount to the success of the Victorian scheme as it now plays a role in a national marketplace,” said Mr Stout.
“We urge the Victorian Government to recognise national registrations allowing any items currently registered or sold in other states are accepted in Victoria at no additional cost.”
The National Retail Association supports the establishment of an open and inclusive network tender process for contracts for the roles of Scheme Coordinator and Network Operator.
The National Retail Association also supports equal and fair consideration for social enterprises to give charity, community and sports groups opportunities to benefit from the scheme.
The National Retail Association is the voice of modern Australian retail, representing more than 28,000 shop fronts nationwide. It has been serving businesses in the retail and fast food sectors for close to 100 years.
David Stout is available for interviews. Please contact the NRA’s media unit on 07 3240 0163.