There are a few easy ways to return your eligible containers and collect your 10c refund. Each refund point is a little different, read below so you can choose what suits you best
Depot
Depots are large, staffed recycling centres where our team is ready to help.
They’re built for all return sizes, from a few containers to carloads. With walk-in, drive-through, or fast-counting, depots make recycling quick and efficient. They never fill up, so there’s no need to book ahead. Get instant cash, electronic refunds via bank account or PayPal, or choose to donate — all at one convenient location plus a smile.
Reverse Vending Machine
Fast, simple, and completely self-serve, RVMs are perfect for quick container returns while you're out and about. Whether you're on a grocery run or passing through a shopping centre car park, RVMs make it easy to recycle without slowing down your day.
These automated machines, shipping container-like units, are ideal for returns of up to 200 containers. Just feed your containers in, one by one, and let the machine handle the rest.
Getting your refund is just as easy. Most RVMs offer a choice of refund options between cash vouchers at participating supermarkets, electronic payments and donations to charity.
Retail RVM
Fast, compact, and completely self-serve, Retail RVMs are ideal for smaller container returns while you’re out and about.
Simply feed your containers in one by one, and the machine takes care of the rest.
Retail RVMs offer refunds only via the CDS Vic East app or the option to donate your refund.
Over-the-Counter
Over-the-Counter (OTC) return points are perfect for your smallest returns. They're quick, easy, and run by local legends in your community.
These spots are hosted by small businesses, petrol stations, neighbourhood centres, and even not-for-profit groups or volunteers. When you return your containers at an OTC, you're not just recycling — you're supporting the local economy and grassroots organisations.
Collection Service - ReCollect
Our Collection Service, ReCollect, is an easy way to manage your business' bottle and can returns with a reliable, contactless pickup service designed specifically for commercial sites. Whether you're a café, restaurant, office, or event space, we make it simple to recycle and get rewarded.
Download the app today and get started!
Still have questions?
Our depots offer cash-back refunds, electronic refunds, and donation options.
Sites such as RVMS and some OTCs do not provide cash refunds and require you to create an account with CDS Vic East.
Containers need to be eligible in the Victorian Scheme, need to be empty and not completely crushed.
At a Fast-Counting Depot, simply pour all your containers onto the belt and let the machine do the work. Your containers are counted in record time, no sorting required.
You can find a full list of services offered at each depot on their locations page.
Fast-Counting Depots include:
- Dandenong South
- Dromana
- Drouin
- Frankston
- Keysborough
- Hallam
- Moorabbin
- Mulgrave
- Oakleigh
- Pakenham
- Traralgon
RVMs do not dispense cash.
To receive your refund electronically, please download the CDS Vic East app before visiting the site.
Alternatively, you can choose a voucher refund, which can be redeemed at Coles or Woolworths for cash or groceries.
If you have not yet received your refund, please contact our customer experience team with the following ready to go:
- The location name of your return
- The date and time of your return
- Zone ID (if you have one)
- The number of containers you returned
Our RVMs are ideal for medium-sized returns; however, they may occasionally reach capacity. Depending on the location, machines are serviced on a daily schedule and may be emptied multiple times per day.
If you encounter a full machine, please contact our customer service line or email vic@returnit.com.au to report it. We actively monitor volumes across all sites and make adjustments where possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
OTCs are best suited for smaller returns, typically up to 200 containers.
Some OTC locations may have specific limits on the number of containers they can accept, which will be listed on their individual location pages (for example, a maximum of 50 containers per person). These limits are based on the nature of each business and their available storage capacity
If you experience any issues with a receipt issued at an OTC refund point, please return to the same refund location for assistance and adjustment.
OTC locations are manual return points, so containers are counted by staff rather than machines. Your return will be processed through a POS system, and a refund will be issued. Some OTC locations offer cash refunds; please check the refund location page for details.