How It Works

How It Works

Three Simple Steps

Whether you're passionate about reducing your environmental impact or you're hoping to make a little extra pocket money, recycling containers has never been easier! Here at Cairns Recycling, we have convenient container refund points located throughout Cairns and beyond, including Smithfield, Portsmith, Mareeba, Edmonton, Gordonvale and Mackay.

Recycling your containers is as easy as one, two, three:

Collect eligible containers
Bring your containers to one of our centres
Earn a refund or donate

Earn a 10-cent refund with each eligible container you return! We have several payment methods available so you can choose the option that best suits you. You can also donate your container refund to a charity of your choice.

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Side View Of A Young Boy — How It Works in Smithfield, QLD

Young Boy And Man Holding A Money And Tarpaulin — How It Works in Smithfield, QLD

Refunds & Donations

When you drop off containers at Cairns Recycling, there are a few different ways you can claim your refund:

Electric funds transfer (EFT): Once you have signed up for a scheme ID, your refund can be paid through PayPal, or via EFT straight into your nominated bank account.
Cash: Claim your cash refund immediately.
Donate your containers: Quote your chosen charity, school or community group's scheme ID at the depot to donate your containers.

Please note, if you return more than 825 containers at one time, you'll need to show your driver's licence to claim your refund. If you return more than 1,500 containers, you'll need to show your licence and also sign a refund declaration form. For all enquiries, call Cairns Recycling on 0436 663 336.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find more information?

You can download the Containers for Change app to set up and manage your scheme ID, as well as read through the FAQs. The app also allows you to scan any barcode and immediately find out if the container is eligible to be recycled. Find the app for Android or Apple.
Do you accept crushed cans?

Yes, we accept crushed cans for recycling; however, we prefer whole cans as they are easier to handle and process.
How do I bring my drink containers to site?

We encourage the use of reusable storage options such as chaff or bulk bags as these are strong and avoid contributing to waste. Restacking glass bottles into the cardboard cartons they were sold in is also a safe option for transporting and avoiding breakage.
What do I need to know before bringing my drink containers in?

Collect containers and ensure they are eligible to avoid disappointment. Ineligible containers can be placed in your yellow-top council kerbside bin as these will not be paid for or accepted at our sites. It’s also important that your containers have the lids removed and the fluids drained. We encourage you consider reusable bags or crate options as these are safer for handling and reduce environmental impacts. Your own personal protective equipment such as gloves are not essential but encouraged. Consider how you would like to collect your refund. If choosing electronic fund transfer, a scheme ID will need to be created prior to your containers being processed. Head to the Containers for Change website to sign up.
Do I need to remove lids from containers before bringing them in?

Yes, containers require the lids to be removed.
Do I need to sort my cans and bottles before bringing them in?

Our friendly staff are able to assist you to sort your containers. However, sorting glass from all other containers allows a faster process, regardless of whether these are counted manually or through our counting machines.