The McGowan Government has today announced Western Australia’s container deposit scheme will commence on October 1, paving the way for reduced litter, improved recycling rates, and the creation of new businesses and employment opportunities across the State.
It is estimated more than 500 jobs will be created at refund points across the State, including hundreds of jobs to be targeted at employing people with disability, the long-term unemployed and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as opportunities for apprentices and trainees.
Containers for Change will allow Western Australians to claim a 10-cent refund when they return eligible beverage containers at designated refund points across the State.
Today’s announcement includes a financial assistance package of up to $3.5 million to support network participants financially impacted by deferral of the scheme, ensuring they remain viable until scheme commencement. It will also ensure sustainability of the collection network.
In preparation for the scheme, participants made financial commitments such as taking on leases, staff and technology to support their operations.
The funding will be made available from June 2, 2020 until scheme commencement.
More information is available on the department’s container deposit scheme page –https://www.dwer.wa.gov.au/cds/information
As stated by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
“Western Australians have been telling us they are ready and willing to get involved in a cash for cans scheme, they want to recycle right and they want to ensure less beverage containers end up in landfill.
“The scheme’s launch date had to be delayed due to COVID-19, a decision that was supported by the community and the scheme co-ordinator, and public health advice.
“An October launch date strikes the right balance between keeping people safe and ensuring the sustainability of the network.
“We are getting on with the job of making sure this scheme delivers the best possible outcomes for all Western Australians.”
