On 20 February 2025, the Hon Andrew Powell MP, Minister for Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, announced an inquiry into the Queensland CDS (container refund scheme). The Legislative Assembly agreed to a motion that Health, Environment and Innovation Committee (committee) inquire into and report on Improving Queensland’s container refund scheme.
The terms of reference call upon the committee to report to the Legislative Assembly by 21 August 2025 on:
- The current state and operation of Queensland’s container refund scheme and its efficiency and effectiveness in meeting the scheme’s objects as outlined in section 99H of the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011.
- The efficiency and effectiveness of the scheme’s administration by Container Exchange (Qld) Limited (COEX) as the appointed Product Responsibility Organisation under the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011, including:
- its progress towards achieving the container recovery rate of at least 85 per cent for each financial year;
- the availability of refund points across Queensland to provide the community with access to a place to return empty beverage containers in exchange for a refund; and
- the final processing and utilisation of recycled products, ensuring transparency and public oversight.
- Whether the scope and objectives of the scheme remain fit for purpose and meet the needs of all Queenslanders, noting the Queensland government’s ongoing support for the scheme.
- Ensuring the appropriateness of governance arrangements, structures and expenditure (including sponsorship).
- Any other relevant matters.
Call for submissions
The committee invites submissions on any aspect of the Inquiry, from all interested parties. Guidelines for making a submission to a parliamentary committee are available here: Guide to making a submission. Please ensure your submission meets these requirements.
Click here to make an online submission to the inquiry.
If you are unable to provide a written submission, please contact the secretariat to discuss other options. The closing date for written submissions is 10am, Friday 4 April 2025.