You will soon be able to turn these into cash. Photo: Thinkstock
Camera IconYou will soon be able to turn these into cash. Photo: Thinkstock Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Cash for cans and bottles: Barnett government to introduce container deposit scheme

Greig JohnstonEastern Reporter

THE Barnett Government will introduce container deposit legislation to help recycling and reduce littering in Western Australia.

The scheme, expected to begin in mid-2018, would see people get a 10 cent refund for each bottle and can they recycle.

It will encompass beer cans and bottles, soft drinks, bottled water, small flavoured milk drinks, sports drinks and spirit-based mixed drinks.

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The 10 cent refund will be available from reverse vending machines and collection depots at parks, beaches and other public spaces across Western Australia.

Such a plan has been in operation in South Australia since 1977.

In the Commonwealth Government’s 2012 National Waste Report, Western Australia was the worst state for recycling and the biggest waste producer.

Premier Colin Barnett said community desire for a container deposit scheme was very strong, which should lead to high participation.

“Drinks containers are commonly littered, which is not only unsightly, but can cause environmental harm,” Mr Barnett said.

“With a 10 cent refund available, there is a greater incentive to recycle as everyone can benefit from doing the right thing.”

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said the scheme would be a winner.

“I have been persuaded by the success of schemes in other States and Territories,” he said.

“South Australia records higher recycling rates than any other State and significantly less beverage container litter and WA has the highest percentage of drinks containers in our litter.

“I believe a scheme will make a big difference in this State.”