If you’ve ever grumbled about the rising cost of living, here’s some good news that might just put a spring in your step—and a tidy sum in your bank account!

Victorians are being given the chance to win a whopping $10,000 simply by recycling their empty drink containers, which many of us already do.

Yes, you read that right—your next trip to the recycling depot could turn your trash into serious treasure!


In partnership with VicReturn, the Victorian government has launched the ‘Win a Million Cents’ competition to encourage more people to use the state’s container deposit scheme.

The entry rules are refreshingly simple: collect at least 50 eligible drink containers—like soft drink cans, water bottles, or juice cartons—and return them in a single transaction at your local refund point.


Be sure to keep proof of the transaction, either a photo of your receipt or a screenshot if using the app. Then, head to the VicReturn website to fill out the online entry form.

Each batch of 50 containers earns you one entry into the draw, so the more you recycle, the better your chances.

The competition runs until June 15, giving you plenty of time to get involved. What's up for grabs?


Five lucky winners will each pocket $10,000 in cash—enough for a dream holiday, a home upgrade, or a nice boost to the retirement fund.

And in a lovely twist, one winner will also get to donate an additional $10,000 to a charity of their choice, spreading the good fortune even further.

Victoria’s Environment Minister, Steve Dimopoulos, says the campaign is all about turning 'trash into cash' while helping the environment and supporting the supply chain for recycled materials.

It’s a win-win: you get rewarded for doing the right thing, and the planet gets a little cleaner.

Container deposit schemes have been rolled out across Australia in recent years, offering 10 cents for every eligible container returned.

While this has led to a noticeable reduction in litter—especially on our beautiful beaches and in public spaces—some experts say the 10-cent incentive may not be enough to keep up the momentum.

Heidi Tait, CEO of Tangaroa Blue (an organisation dedicated to tackling plastic pollution), points out that while these schemes have made a difference, the initial enthusiasm can fade.

'There’s a lot of conversations going on right now about whether 10 cents is enough, and the answer to that is probably no. If you want people to see it as an incentive, you need to make it an incentive and 10 cents is not really that much in this day and age,' she said.

Generally, most single-use drink containers between 150ml and 3 litres are eligible, including plastic and glass bottles, aluminium cans, and some cartons.

Milk containers, wine bottles, and cordial bottles are usually excluded, but it’s always best to check the complete list on the VicReturn website or at your local refund point.

Even if you don’t win the big prize, you’ll still pocket 10 cents for every container you return.

That can add up quickly—especially if you’re a regular soft drink or bottled water drinker.

Plus, you’ll be doing your bit to reduce landfill and keep our parks, beaches, and streets clean.

Most states and territories in Australia now have some form of container deposit scheme, so even if you’re not in Victoria, you can still cash in your empties.

However, this particular $10,000 competition is exclusive to Victorians for now.
We’d love to hear from you, members! Have you taken part in your local container deposit scheme? Do you think 10 cents per container is enough incentive, or should it be increased? And will you be entering the ‘Win a Million Cents’ competition? Share your thoughts and recycling tips in the comments below.