New CDS Recycling Machines Approved For Stonnington
At its meeting on Monday 16 June, Council unanimously endorsed the installation of three new Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) refund points across Stonnington, helping close a major gap in metropolitan Melbourne’s recycling infrastructure.
The approved sites are:
Until now, Stonnington has had the fewest CDS refund points of any metropolitan council. These new locations bring the City in line with neighbouring municipalities and will support more residents, schools and community groups to participate in the Victorian Government’s 10-cent refund scheme for eligible bottles and cans.
Mayor of Stonnington, Cr Melina Sehr, said the decision was a positive step forward for local sustainability efforts and a win for the community.
“Our community cares deeply about sustainability and recycling. These new refund points will make it easier for residents to do the right thing while supporting local sporting and community groups to benefit financially through returns,” Cr Sehr said.
CDS refund points reduce litter, improve recycling outcomes and form a key part of Victoria’s push to divert 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030. More than one billion containers have been collected through the scheme statewide since its launch in late 2023.
Cr Sehr said the sites were carefully chosen based on accessibility, safety and minimal disruption to surrounding areas.
“We’ve identified locations that are well-used, easy to access and require minimal infrastructure upgrades. This is just the beginning. We’re already looking at further options in the centre of the municipality, including near Prahran Market and Malvern Town Hall,” she said.
Council will now work with Return It, the East Zone operator, to finalise lease agreements and install the refund points. Site performance will be monitored over the first 12 months.
Cr Sehr said Stonnington would also continue its advocacy for a more practical and better-funded approach to glass recycling across Victoria.
“We remain firm in our position that an expanded CDS – including wine and spirit bottles – offers greater environmental benefit without passing unnecessary costs onto ratepayers,” Cr Sehr said.
“We’re working with more than 30 other councils to push for flexibility and funding so we can deliver the most effective outcomes for our communities.”
These initiatives support Stonnington’s Waste Strategy and Council Plan priorities, including sustainability, climate action and creating a future-ready city.
https://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au/About/Media-centre/News-notices-and-media-releases/2025/Container-deposit-scheme-public-statement