Tasmania is one step closer to introducing a container refund program by announcing the scheme’s partners.

Not-for-profit TasRecycle has been named as scheme coordinator while TOMRA Cleanaway has been announced network operator.

TOMRA Cleanaway brings to the scheme operator experience from involvement in similar initiatives in NSW and Victoria.

When the Tasmanian program – called Recycle Rewards – launches in mid-2025, the state will finally join the country’s other states and territories in providing such a scheme.

“Once Recycle Rewards starts, people will receive a 10c refund for any eligible beverage container returned to a designated refund point in Tasmania,” minister for parks and environment Nick Duigan said.

TasRecycle chair Ben Kearney welcomed the company’s involvement in the scheme. “We look forward to supporting Tasmania’s environmental goals and the local community organisations, households and businesses who will benefit from the introduction of a successful container refund scheme,” Kearney said.

Now that the roles of administrator and operator have been filled, mobilisation of the Recycle Rewards scheme can get underway – including the deployment of 49 refund points across the state.

TOMRA Cleanaway CEO James Dorney acknowledged there was a lot of work ahead. “We are building our team to deliver an exceptional outcome for the people of Tasmania,” he said.

The entire population of Tasmania – just over 550,000 people – will be encouraged to participate in the recycling scheme. As in other jurisdictions, customers can choose to receive their refund as a voucher to redeem for cash, a digital transfer to their bank, or donate to charities or community groups.

Beverage containers make up 45% of the state’s litter. It is estimated that the refund scheme will reduce the amount by almost 50%, as well as double recycling rates of containers.

Dorney said TOMRA Cleanaway remains committed to recycling all of the materials collected through the scheme including aluminium, glass, and plastics. “We aim to continue to deliver a positive legacy in the areas in which we operate, and drive value through recycling.”