A first-timer’s guide to fighting the fill with Containers for Change

Minimising waste going into landfill and making some extra cash while we’re at it? We can’t think of a better combo! 

In 2023, we’re dedicated to making a difference and more conscious of the planet than ever before… Luckily, it’s now easier than ever to take our recycling to the next level!

With that in mind, we’ve put together a handy-dandy rundown on how you can stop feeding the fill with Containers for Change — while feeding your wallet or helping a worthy cause instead!

What can you return through Containers for Change? 

The first rule of returning is figuring out what is accepted! The good news is that it’s super simple to figure out what you can take to Containers for Change — just look for the 10¢ mark on the bottle, carton or can. Most aluminium, glass, plastic and carton containers that are 150mL to 3L in size will have them — just make sure you’ve removed any lids (they can be returned, just separately!).

If in doubt, you can always head to the Containers for Change online container eligibility checker by typing in your container’s barcode, or scan it then and there on the Containers for Change WA app. Easy peasy!

Where can I return my 10¢ containers (and how does it work)?

With hundreds of refund points across WA, there’s practically one around every corner! Refund points can include depots, bag drops, reverse vending machines and even pop-up collection points — and each are easy as pie. 

Bag drops:

If you’re near a bag drop, you can simply sign up online for a member number, chuck your 10¢ containers in a bag (preferably reusable!), seal it up securely with your member number and name attached, and drop it at the designated location — your bag will be picked up, counted, and refund processed using your member number payment details. 

Reverse vending machines:

Reverse vending machines are just as easy — and you’ll get your refund, either transferred via member number or with a retail voucher you can use on your next shopping trip. A nifty machine will scan your 10¢ containers’ barcodes, so this refund point is best suited to your uncrushed 10¢ containers. 

Depots:

You can also drop into one of the many depots! These larger facilities are often staffed, so if you’re feeling a bit nervous (don’t worry, everyone is for their first time), they can help you navigate the process — but take it from us, you’ll do great. Depending on the depot, 10¢ containers are counted by either machines or people… Some even have drive-through options!

What else do I need to know?

As mentioned, while you’re collecting your 10¢ containers make sure to remove the lids. Don’t chuck out the lids though! They can still be returned with your 10¢ containers, they just have to be processed separately.

While we’re stoked for any opportunity to make some extra cash, you can also show your altruistic side and donate your earnings to a local charity, school or community group — there’s even a directory of good causes already registered with Containers for Change. You can even get together with your mates, family or co-workers to pool your containers for a good cause!

To find out more about how and where to return your 10¢ containers, head to the Containers for Change website.

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This article is sponsored by Containers for Change and endorsed by us. Please see our Editorial Policy for more info.