What you can return
In NSW, most drink containers with the 10c refund mark on the label are eligible to return. These are the types of bottles, cans and cartons that are consumed ‘on the go’ and commonly found as litter in NSW.
What you can recycle for 10c
What you can return
Most aluminium, glass, plastic and liquid paperboard (carton) drink containers between 150mL and 3 litres are eligible for a 10c refund.
- Plastic bottles ie. water, soft drink, flavoured milk under 1L, juice and sports drinks
- Glass bottles ie. water, beer, soft drink, pre-mixed spirits, juice and kombucha
- Cans ie. soft drink, water, energy drinks, beer and pre-mixed spirits
- Poppers and cartons ie. juice and flavoured milk under 1L
What you can't return
Some drink containers commonly consumed inside the home are not currently eligible for a refund and should be recycled in your household bin.
- Containers under 150mL
- Containers over 3L
- Wine bottles
- Spirit bottles
- Plain milk bottles and cartons (including alternative milk)
- Cordial bottles
- Health tonics
- Pure juice bottles over 1L (comprised of 90% pure juice)
- Water and wine casks or sachets
Look for the 10c mark on the label
The best way to identify an eligible container is by the 10c refund mark on the drink container label. It is often located near the barcode.
Use the Return and Earn app to scan the barcode
Use the container checker tool on the Return and Earn app. Scan the barcode and the app will tell you if it’s eligible or not.
Check our database
If you’re not sure, check our container database and search by the product name or barcode.
What condition do your drink containers need to be in?
For our return points to accept your containers they must be:
- Uncrushed
- Not broken
- Empty
- Visible barcode
- Lids on (where possible)
Are you a school, business or community group looking to fundraise?
Return and Earn is a unique fundraising channel that converts your litter reduction and recycling efforts into dollars to support your cause.
