Victorians who’ve been dutifully dropping bottles into recycling bins now have a cash incentive to up their game. The state’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) is launching a competition offering five residents the chance to win $10,000 each—cheekily branded as “One Million Cents.”
The campaign runs from 5 May to 15 June 2025 and is open to anyone in Victoria who returns eligible drink containers through the scheme. Every 50 items dropped off in one go gets you a ticket in the draw—regardless of whether the refund is pocketed or donated to charity. And for one lucky winner, there’s a bonus: an extra $10,000 to give to a registered charity, school or community group linked to the scheme.
Since its launch in November 2023, CDS Vic has recorded 1.8 billion containers returned—amounting to $180 million back into the hands of residents, or in many cases, into the tills of schools, local causes and sporting clubs. About $1.7 million has been channelled towards donations.
Jim Round, CEO of VicReturn, the body overseeing the scheme, said the response has exceeded expectations. “I’m so proud of how Victorians have embraced the scheme and the positive impact it is making on sustainability and community fundraising,” he said.
He added that the Win A Million! Cents competition is not just about incentives. “It’s a fun way to thank Victorians for their support and to encourage even more participation.”
Participants can choose to keep their 10-cent-per-container refund or donate it to one of the 700+ causes registered on the platform. Either way, every bulk return is a ticket to win—quite literally. The campaign hopes to build on growing community engagement, and ensure more bottles and cans end up where they belong.
For many schools and grassroots groups, the scheme has become a welcome source of passive fundraising. It’s not uncommon for sports clubs to hold ‘bottle drives’ or for local councils to set up collection cages at events and parks.
To enter the competition or check the eligibility of your drink containers, visit winamillioncents.com.au. And if you’re still unsure where to drop off your cans and bottles, cdsvic.org.au has an interactive map of refund points across the state.
You don’t need a massive stash to participate—just a regular recycling habit and 50 containers per visit. That’s roughly what a couple of footy fans might go through in a weekend.
The message is clear: if you’re already recycling, you’re halfway there. And if you’re not, there’s now ten thousand good reasons to start.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
