Queenslanders have recycled 11 billion containers through Containers for Change with thousands of empties returned for the 10-cent refund every minute.
The incredible recycling milestone marks $1.1 billion in 10-cent refunds that have flown back into the pockets of everyday people, from mums and dads to the next generation of changemakers.
The milestone also coincides with National Recycling Week, a time to highlight and celebrate the actions everyday Queenslanders are taking to build a cleaner, greener future.
More than 3,000 containers are recycled through Containers for Change every minute.
Natalie Roach, Chief Executive Officer of Container Exchange (COEX), the not-for-profit organisation that runs Containers for Change, said Queenslanders were among the most avid and generous recyclers in Australia.
“Recycling 11 billion containers through Containers for Change is something every Queenslander can take great pride in,” Ms Roach said.
“Over the past seven years, Queenslanders across the state have used their cash refunds to power grassroots initiatives and support causes close to their heart from school fundraising to local charities, community and sporting groups.”
Queensland has reached this achievement just seven months after the state celebrated 10 billion containers in April 2025.
Ms Roach said Queenslanders’ collective efforts were creating cleaner neighbourhoods, strengthening local economies and building a more sustainable future.
“Returning your eligible containers is a simple action with far-reaching benefits, we encourage everyone to keep making a difference.
“Our goal remains to make container recycling even more accessible for every Queenslander so that no container goes to waste.”
Since its launch on 1 November 2018, Containers for Change has:
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