- Cook Labor Government expands Containers for Change from 1 July 2026 to create jobs, boost recycling, and protect the environment for future generations
- More than 5.4 billion containers have been collected for recycling through the scheme since its launch in 2020
- Almost all beverage containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres are now eligible for a 10-cent refund
- Containers for Change supports 846 jobs and has generated more than $20 million for charities, schools, and community groups
The Cook Labor Government is making one of Western Australia’s most popular environmental and community initiatives even bigger, with wine and spirit bottles soon to be included in Containers for Change.
This is giving households more opportunities to earn refunds while helping protect the environment.
The expansion, from 1 July 2026, means almost all beverage containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres will be eligible for the 10-cent refund, adding around 200 million extra containers annually and supporting the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to grow Western Australia’s circular economy, create jobs, reduce waste to landfill, and protect and restore the environment for future generations.
Since launching in 2020, Containers for Change has recovered more than 5.4 billion containers, helping lift Western Australia’s beverage container recovery rate from 34 per cent to more than 65 per cent, with this figure reaching 80 per cent for glass containers.
The scheme has generated more than $21 million for charities, schools, and community groups through donated refunds, and provides an ongoing source of fundraising for community organisations across the State.
Containers for Change supports 850 jobs across WA, including through small businesses and social enterprises.
The scheme also creates employment opportunities for people with disability and strengthens local economies in regional and remote communities.
New suppliers have a three-year transition period to update labelling, meaning some newly eligible containers may not immediately display the 10c mark.
Cellared products may access a transition period of up to 10 years. Eligible containers purchased from 1 July 2026 can still be returned for a refund.
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
“From 1 July 2026, Western Australians can claim a refund on almost every eligible beverage container sold in the State, making Containers for Change bigger and better than ever.
“The expansion of Containers for Change to include wine and spirit bottles delivers on the Cook Labor Government’s 2025 election commitment.
“Containers for Change is delivering strong economic, social, and environmental benefits for Western Australia, encouraging recycling, reducing landfill, retaining valuable resources, and supporting jobs and community organisations across the State.
“Containers for Change delivers value across the community, from teaching children financial responsibility to supporting jobs for people facing barriers to employment.
“It’s important to acknowledge Containers for Change is funded by industry, and we are working with new suppliers to support a smooth transition.”
As stated by WARRRL CEO Tim Cusack:
“WARRRL welcomes the expansion of Western Australia’s container deposit scheme.
“From 1 July, almost all beverage containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres will be eligible for a 10-cent refund, making it easier than ever for Western Australians to participate and benefit.
“The refund point network has worked tremendously hard to prepare for this milestone and we are proud to say the network is operationally ready to welcome the new containers from day one.
“WARRRL remains committed to working closely with all new First Responsible Suppliers to ensure their transition into the scheme is as practical, effective, and seamless as possible for everyone involved.”
