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Community
29 SEP 2021

Find out how we are responding to COVID-19

WE’RE OPEN: Return and Earn return points across NSW are open and can be accessed for returns in line with the latest Public Health Orders. 

The health and well-being of our Return and Earn participants, our staff and the community are our priority in these challenging times. 

Anyone visiting a return point must ensure they comply with the latest Public Health Orders including checking-in via the QR code displayed, wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing of a least 1.5 metres from others, and practice good hygiene. 

We recommend checking the status of your nearest return point online or via the Return and Earn app before visiting and avoiding peak times where possible. 

We appreciate your patience and support as we work together through these challenging times. 

 

Reverse vending machines (RVMs)

We’ve introduced ‘touch-free recycling’ at all our RVMs, so participants now only need to touch their own containers, not the machine. 

In accordance with the latest Public Health Orders, please check-in via the QR code displayed when visiting a reverse vending machine and remember to check-out once you have finished. 

  • For a cash voucher, begin by inserting your containers. Once you’re ready for your refund, simply wait 15 seconds and the RVM will automatically print your cash voucher. 
  • For e-voucher or PayPal payout, you’ll need to have downloaded the Return and Earn app first. Once at the RVM, scan your app barcode, insert your containers and then wait 15 seconds after your last container is returned and the machine will send your refund to your app. 

Signage has been installed at all RVMs to remind participants to follow good hygiene practices; and clear markings have been applied on the ground in front of the RVM as an easy guide for where to stand to maintain social distancing when returning. 

All RVMs are thoroughly cleaned twice a day, and our network operator continues to monitor government advice, ready to review cleaning practices as needed. 

 

Automated depots

All automated depots are following government advice, including the use of personal protective equipment and following recommended hygiene practices. 

In accordance with the latest Public Health Orders, please check-in via the QR code displayed when visiting and remember to check-out once you have finished. 

Additional signage has been installed reminding participants to follow good hygiene practices and social distancing. Clear markings have also been installed on the ground to help participants maintain appropriate social distancing when returning and additional cleans are carried out regularly.

A number of the large automated depots also operate a home collection service for anyone wanting to return and earn without leaving their home. Check the location of your nearest automated depot on this website.

 

Over the counter return points

All over the counter return points are following government advice, including the use of personal protective equipment and following recommended hygiene practices. 

In accordance with the latest Public Health Orders, please check-in via the QR code displayed when visiting and remember to check-out once you have finished. 

Additional signage has been installed reminding participants to follow good hygiene practices and social distancing, and additional cleans are carried out regularly. 

Some over the counter locations have closed because the business they operate from (such as newsagent, car wash, surf life saving club) has had to close. We recommend checking the status of your local return point before visiting. 

 

We are closely monitoring the situation and will take all necessary precautions based on the latest advice from government. For the latest up to date information about COVID-19, visit NSW Health or Australian Government Health

We appreciate your support, patience and understanding as we take these necessary steps to ensure the safest possible environment for everyone.

To keep track of any updates and changes to Return and Earn operations, bookmark our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.


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