Victorian cash-for-cans scheme could save state $800m and create 1200 jobs
Hundreds of millions of dollars could be injected into Victoria’s charities and community groups with the introduction of a particular version of the state’s long-awaited cash-for-cans scheme. Here’s how.
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Victoria’s long-awaited cash-for-cans scheme could inject hundreds of millions of dollars into sporting clubs, charities and community groups and create more than 1200 jobs.
The Herald Sun can reveal VicRecycle, established by Coca-Cola Amatil and Lion, is lobbying the state government to appoint a not-for-profit operator for the container deposit scheme.
Modelled on successful schemes in Queensland and Western Australia, they say it would be more than $800 million cheaper over the next decade than following the lead of NSW, where a commercial operator is in charge.
“We want to see parents have the opportunity to take their cans or bottles down to the footy club or netball courts on the weekend and the club use those donations to upgrade facilities or reduce playing fees,” VicRecycle director Jeff Maguire said.
“Times have never been tougher for many of these organisations — and a scheme that’s focused on delivering for the community will be welcomed across the board.”
The state government has set up an advisory group to guide the design of the scheme, which will go live in 2023, making Victoria the last state in Australia to put one in place.
KPMG estimates that VicRecycle’s proposal, with a not-for-profit operator appointed, would create 1220 jobs, compared with 445 jobs with a commercial model.
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