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Return and Earn is a recycling program for drink containers, where you receive a 10 cent refund for each empty bottle, can or carton that you give back at a return point.
Watch this video to find out why Return and Earn is the rewarding way to recycle your drink containers:
Video 1 – Don’t include this text
Return and Earn is an initiative of the NSW Government
How to Return and Earn
It’s easy! Just follow these steps:
You can also watch this video to learn the basics:
Video 2 – Don’t include this text
How to Return and Earn
Did you know you can earn money and track how much you recycle using the Return and Earn app?
You can receive a digital payment straight to your bank account, track how much you earn or donate your refunds all through the Return and Earn app. It makes recycling more convenient and rewarding.
The app is available in <traditional Cantonese/simplified Mandarin/Arabic/Vietnamese> **Insert the language that the page is on. eg on the Arabic page – ‘The app is available in Arabic’**
Eligible containers
Which containers are eligible and can be returned for a refund of 10 cents each?
Check the label on the drink container for the ‘10c’ refund mark to confirm that it can be returned.
These containers can be returned:
| Cartons | Cans | Glass | Plastic |
|---|
These containers carry between 150mL and 3L volume.
Return and Earn was introduced to reduce litter in NSW and ensure drink containers end up being recycled. The type of drink containers that are accepted in exchange for a 10 cent refund are those which are commonly found littered in the environment, waterways or the ocean.
Remember to leave the lids on the containers when you return them. They will be recycled too!
You should dispose of these items in your bins at home
| Visual | Item |
|---|---|
 |
Plain milk cartons |
 |
Large milk containers |
 |
Wine bottles |
 |
Spirit bottles |
 |
Coffee cups |
 |
Any container smaller than 150mL |
 |
Anything that is not a drink container |
If you come across a container that you think should be eligible but the machine rejects it, please take a photo of the container label showing the brand name, liquid volume and the manufacturer’s details on the back of the label. Send those photos to contactus@returnandearn.gholab.com.au and we will investigate why they might not be registered as eligible containers.
Return points
There are hundreds of return points across NSW. Compare the different types of return points and choose the one that is most convenient for you
Return and Earn machine
Convenient locations, easy to use and ideal for up to 500 containers
Refunds
Bank transfer or PayPal*
Printed voucher**
Donations
*Digital refunds are available using the Return and Earn app
**Digital vouchers on the Return and Earn app and printed vouchers can be redeemed at the participating supermarket for either cash or to discount your shopping bill. Check the supermarket logo on the voucher to determine where it can be redeemed.
Automated depot
Staffed recycling warehouses that are ideal for returning large quantities of containers*
Refunds
Cash*
EFT**
*If a single customer deposits more than 1500 containers in a single day or 3000 within a 48hour period, a Refund Declaration form needs to be signed and a copy of a valid Proof of Identification card taken to help prevent fraud.
**Automated depots are independently operated and some may offer either cash or EFT only. Contact the automated depot to enquire.
Over the Counter
Located in local small businesses and shops, offering cash-in hand for up to 100 containers each visit.
Refunds
Cash
Find out where you can recycle your containers for 10 cents each
Refunds and donations
There are different ways to earn your 10 cent refund
Electronic Funds Transfer
Use the Return and Earn app to transfer your refunds direct to your bank account or via PayPal.
Electronic Funds Transfers are available at participating automated depots. Contact the automated depot to enquire.
Cash
Get cash when you present your digital vouchers on the Return and Earn app or printed vouchers from machines at the participating supermarket or retailer. Check the supermarket logo on the voucher to determine where it can be redeemed
Alternatively, return your drink containers at an automated depot or over the counter return point for a cash refund.
Redeem
Digital vouchers on the Return and Earn app and printed vouchers can be redeemed at the participating supermarket to reduce your shopping bill.
Check the supermarket logo on the voucher to determine where it can be redeemed
Donate
Use the Return and Earn app to donate to charity. You can choose from over 100 different fundraising campaigns.
You can donate directly to charity at Return and Earn machines (including machines in Return and Earn Centres, Return and Earn Express and Donation Stations) by selecting your preferred charity on the touchscreen.
Start returning and earning today!