​​​​​​​​Drink containers make up 45 per cent of Tasmania’s litter, by volume. From late 2022, Tasmanians will get a refund for each eligible drink container they return to a designated Refund Point. The statewide Container Refund Scheme (CRS) aims to reduce litter and boost recycling, to protect our unique natural environment. Millions of drink containers will be recycled each year instead of ending up in our parks, rivers and beaches.

​​Every Australian state and territory​​ has a CRS or has committed to implement one. All states are working to harmonise the refund amount, which is currently 10 cents per container. 

Policy update

The Tasmanian Government is currently designing a CRS best suited to our state ahead of implementa​​tion in 2022. As part of this process an Expert Reference Group has been formed to advise on the design of the Scheme. The ERG is made up of representatives from:

Member organisations of the Expert Reference Group​

We’re also lia​ising with other states, and building on work from previous studies​​.

Scheme g​​overnance

The Tasmanian Government has announced its position on how the CRS should be governed. The selected model is ‘split responsibility’ governance. That means a Scheme Coordinator oversees the Scheme’s finances and administration, while an independent Network Operator establishes and runs the network of Container Refund Points. 

The Tasmanian Government has selected this model because it will bring together the beverage industry and the waste and recycling sectors to deliver the best Scheme; we think this will maximise container returns. We want the network of Refund Points to be run by companies with expertise in logistics and recycling.

Next steps​​

The Government plans to release draf​t CRS legislation for consultation with the public and stakeholders in the first half of 2021. We will want to hear from you at that time.​​