news, act-politics

Canberra's first container deposit scheme drop-off points will be at four charities across the city from the end of June, so people can choose whether to pocket the 10 cent refund or donate it directly to people in need. There'll also be a bulk drop-off point in Fyshwick, where people can return 500 or more containers, City Services Minister Meegan Fitzharris says. From June 30, Canberrans can return eligible containers, including cans and bottles, to get a refund of 10 cents. Ms Fitzharris said the number of return points would increase over the coming months, but would be located at charity shop fronts or at larger bulk return depots, with residents able to choose to collect the refund themselves or donate the funds to charity. “The use of charity shop fronts is a key part of our approach to the container deposit scheme here in Canberra, with people able to donate their refund, receive cash, or have the money transferred to their bank account,” she said. “The social enterprise model will also create new employment opportunities for Canberrans, as well as raising funds to provide services and support for those in the community who need it most." By next July, there will by 18 return points spread across Canberra. Three St Vincent de Paul shopfronts will be among the first sites to accept containers. Vinnies Canberra's director of compliance Pat McKenna said they welcomed the extra revenue stream. He said the charity got a small handling fee for accepting the containers, although he was hoping Canberrans would also give generously. "I think Canberrans are responsible and community-minded people, so there should be a good take up," Mr McKenna said. "I'd like to encourage people to bring in their bottles for recycling refunds and possibly visit the Vinnies store at the same time to do shopping and donate quality clothes and bric a brac." The first return sites are:

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