Scheme pricing

What is scheme pricing?

Scheme pricing is the amount beverage manufacturers pay for each eligible container supplied into Queensland.

Scheme prices vary by container material.

Current scheme prices

Material Type Current scheme price excl. GST* (through 31 January 2027)
Aluminium 12.8
Glass 13.9
PET / HDPE 13.5
LPB / Steel / Other 13.9
Weighted average** 13.3
*This is the price manufacturers contribute for each beverage product sold by material type into QLD currently after 1 August 2026.

**The weighted average is indicative only and is subject to the material type mix.

How scheme pricing works

Beverage manufacturers pay a scheme contribution for each eligible container supplied into Queensland.

The amount payable depends on:

  • the number of eligible containers supplied
  • the container material
  • the applicable scheme price

How your contributions are calculated

Beverage manufacturers report sales volumes and are invoiced based on the reported volumes and applicable scheme prices.

Calculation:

Number of eligible containers reported × applicable scheme price = scheme contribution

Pricing updates

COEX reviews scheme prices every six months and aims to maintain stable pricing where possible.

Pricing reviews consider factors such as scheme performance, environmental targets, operational costs and container return rates.

Current pricing

There are no changes to scheme prices for eligible beverage products sold in Queensland between 1 August 2026 and 31 January 2027.

Any future pricing changes will be communicated to beverage manufacturers and published on this website.

Consultation and engagement

COEX consults with beverage manufacturers on matters that may affect participation in the Queensland container refund scheme, including scheme pricing.

For information on current and upcoming consultations, visit our industry news page.

FAQs

How is scheme pricing determined?

Scheme pricing is determined by COEX and reflects the costs of operating Queensland’s container refund scheme.

Why are different materials charged different prices?

Different container materials have different collection, processing and recycling costs. Scheme pricing reflects these differences.

How often is scheme pricing reviewed?

COEX reviews scheme pricing every six months to ensure it remains aligned with the costs of operating the scheme.

When do pricing changes take effect?

Any changes to scheme pricing take effect from the date advised by COEX.

How will I be notified of pricing changes?

COEX will notify beverage manufacturers of any pricing changes at least 16 weeks before the new pricing takes effect.

Need help?

If you have questions about your obligations, products, reporting or invoicing, visit our contact page to find the right support team.

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Disclaimer: This page is a general guide only and is provided to help you understand Queensland’s container refund scheme. It does not replace the legislation and should not be relied on as legal advice. Requirements and obligations depend on the law in force at the relevant time. While we aim to keep this information accurate and up to date, you should check the applicable legislation and seek your own advice if you are unsure about your obligations under the scheme.