The Hunter Sets the Standard as ‘Return and Earn’ Hits 13 Billion Recycled Containers Milestone

7 February 2025

The Hunter region is leading the charge in environmental sustainability, playing a crucial role in NSW’s Return and Earn program reaching a staggering milestone: 13 billion drink containers recycled since the initiative launched in December 2017. This remarkable achievement, driven by communities across Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Port Stephens, highlights a widespread commitment to reducing waste and promoting recycling.

On Friday, Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley, revealed new data showcasing the program’s impact. NSW set a single-day recycling record on 23 December 2024, with an astonishing 10.3 million containers returned. Over the past year alone, 2.125 billion containers were recycled, injecting more than $1.3 billion in refunds back into households. Many residents have used these refunds to offset cost-of-living pressures, save for future goals, or donate to charitable causes.

Newcastle engagement in the scheme is significant:

Newcastle: 6.4 million containers recycled during the Christmas/New Year period, totalling 317.4 million since the program began.
Maitland: 3.9 million returned over the festive season, adding to an overall total of 145.7 million.
Lake Macquarie: An impressive 8.97 million containers recycled over Christmas/New Year, bringing its total to 441.3 million.
Cessnock: Over 3 million containers returned during the Christmas/New Year period and a cumulative total of 162.7 million.

Combined, these areas have contributed an incredible 1,067.1 million containers, cementing the Hunter region’s role as a leader in recycling across NSW.

To further encourage participation, a new Return and Earn machine has been installed at the University of Newcastle, near Edwards Hall on University Drive, Callaghan. Open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, the machine offers multiple refund options, including printed vouchers redeemable at Woolworths, e-vouchers, or direct transfers via the Return and Earn app. This upgrade has made recycling even more accessible and convenient for students and locals alike.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the scheme has made a tangible difference in the community. More than $72 million has been raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees. Organisations such as Foodbank NSW & ACT have used these funds to support food relief initiatives, while conservation programs have also benefited.

Port Stephens has seen a notable increase in participation, with local return points reporting surging numbers. While official figures have not been disclosed, this trend aligns with the strong engagement seen across Newcastle and the Hunter region.

Minister Yasmin Catley acknowledged the community’s enthusiasm, stating: “The Newcastle region, including Newcastle, Maitland, and Lake Macquarie, has been an incredible contributor to Return and Earn, collectively returning 904.4 million drink containers since the scheme began. We thank everyone for their ongoing participation.”

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison, echoed the sentiment, noting the economic relief provided by the refunds: “In this cost-of-living crisis, these extra funds are a vital help for many, including local charities.”

Sonia Hornery, Member for Wallsend, welcomed the installation of the new Return and Earn machine at the University of Newcastle’s Callaghan campus, highlighting its convenience for students and nearby residents. “Return and Earn has been a fantastic program, not only for recycling efforts but also as a way to give a little something back to the consumer. This new machine is well-located for students as well as residents in North Lambton, Waratah, and Waratah West. It’s situated in the student accommodation car park and is best accessed from the Kimian Ave entrance of the campus.”

Highlighting the success in another key area, State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr, said:

“The Cessnock community are enthusiastic users of Return and Earn, having collectively returned 162.7 million drink containers since the scheme began. It is great to see people in the Cessnock LGA continuing to contribute to Return and Earn’s success, and supporting local charity groups through the donations.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp highlighted the city’s strong environmental commitment: “Novocastrians are very environmentally conscious. Since the scheme began, our community has returned an incredible 317.4 million containers. It’s inspiring to see such dedication to both our environment and our community.”

For those looking to get involved, visit www.returnandearn.org.au to find your nearest return point and start making a difference today.