Queenslanders have smashed a new recycling record, returning more than 50 million containers in a single week.
Between 15–21 December 2025, more than 50.1 million containers were returned through the state’s container refund scheme, the biggest weekly haul in Containers for Change history.
This put $5.1 million back into the pockets of Queenslanders, from everyday families to community groups fundraising for local causes.
The record-breaking result caps off a year where Queenslanders consistently crushed container recycling milestones and embraced the scheme at unprecedented levels.
The previous record was set in 6–12 January 2025 when 48.3 million containers were returned within one week.
Across 2025, Queenslanders returned more than 1.92 billion containers through more than 400 container refund points.
In return, they pocketed more than $192 million in 10-cent refunds, all while keeping litter out of landfill.
Container returns were up 3.6% on 2024, showing Queenslanders are more committed than ever to container recycling as engagement, accessibility and awareness continues to grow across the state.
Trevor Evans, Interim CEO of Container Exchange, the not-for-profit organisation that runs Containers for Change, said the record is a strong sign for the future of the scheme.
“Queenslanders’ commitment to container recycling has reached new heights,” Mr Evans said.
“Hitting 50 million containers in a single week is an incredible milestone that shows just how much Queenslanders value protecting our environment and supporting their communities.
“We look forward to building on this achievement and delivering even more environmental, social and economic benefits for the future of our state.”
For more information on how to return your eligible containers and earn the 10-cent refund, visit the Containers for Change website.
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