Container recycling just got closer to home for Inala locals with the opening of a new Containers for Change shopfront at Inala Civic Centre.
Operated by Panda Recycling, the new refund point brings accessible, everyday container recycling to the heart of the community and forms part of a statewide expansion of Containers for Change shopfronts.
Open seven days a week from 6:00am to 8:00pm, the site features two Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and offers free pickup for local homes and businesses.
Panda Recycling has paired innovative recycling technology with personal service, offering manual counting alongside the machines to assist anyone who prefers a helping hand.
To ensure the service is accessible to Inala’s diverse community, clear instructions for using the RVMs are available in both English and Vietnamese.
Since the shopfront opened its doors in late October, more than 178,000 containers have been recycled, putting $17,800 back into the Inala community.
Customers can choose to receive cash on the spot, transfer refunds to their bank account, or donate directly to Brisbane South Toy Mission, a local charity that provides children with toys and play materials to foster family togetherness.
Jianming Su, owner of Panda Recycling, said the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.
“As a social enterprise, our goal is to make recycling easier, friendlier and more convenient for Inala locals,” Mr Su said.
“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many neighbours who tell me their stories. For many, container recycling is more than a 10-cent refund, it’s a moment of trust and human connection.”
COEX’s Joe Fitzgerald, the Member for Inala Margie Nightingale MP, Panda Recycling owner Jianming Su and Forest Lake Ward Councillor Charles Strunk at the Inala Shopfront opening on Saturday, 13 December 2025.
Joe Fitzgerald, a spokesperson for Container Exchange, the not-for-profit organisation that runs Containers for Change, said the shopfront demonstrates how meaningful recycling infrastructure can uplift communities.
“Panda Recycling are true community champions, putting their customers first and creating a welcoming space where container recycling brings people together,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
“We look forward to hearing even more wonderful stories about how this shopfront is delivering not only environmental and economic benefits, but social connections that strengthen the Inala community.”
Containers for Change is expanding its network of shopfronts across the state, bringing recycling closer to where Queenslanders live, work, shop and play.
To find your nearest container refund point, visit the Containers for Change website..
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e | media@containerexchange.com.au
