A smooth, friendly way to recycle
Ballarat’s Victorian Container Deposit Scheme depots are operated by McCallum Disability Service. When you return your bottles and cans through the Container Deposit Scheme with McCallum, you do more than recycle.
You help create meaningful employment for people with disability, support a cleaner environment and strengthen the community. Our Container Deposit Scheme depots and commercial collection program make recycling simple, accessible and rewarding for everyone.
Container Deposit Scheme Depots
Our Ballarat depots are designed so you can drive in, stay dry and unload your containers with ease. Everything is undercover and our team is always ready to help. Whether you are dropping off a small bag or a full carload, the process is quick, welcoming and built for all ages and abilities.
Each day our sites process around 40,000 containers. They move through our system at more than 100 containers a minute, which means you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the feeling of doing something good for your community. You receive your cash refund on the spot and the whole process is fast, easy and convenient.
If you have bottles and cans waiting at home, now is the perfect time to bring them in. Every container you return helps the environment and supports meaningful employment at McCallum.
Where you will find us
- Ballarat South, 8 Butt Street, Canadian
- Ballarat North, 6 Neerim Crescent, Mitchell Park
What you can bring
Most aluminium cans, plastic bottles and glass drink containers with the 10c mark are eligible. Containers need to be whole with a readable barcode. If you are unsure, our team can help you check.
Why people choose McCallum depots
- A friendly drive thru experience
- Undercover unloading in all weather
- Fast processing and on the spot refunds
- Accessible for everyone
- Every visit supports local employment for people with disability
Commercial Container Collection Program
Simple recycling for businesses and community groups
Many local businesses want to recycle more, but simply do not have the time to sort and manage additional waste. McCallum Enterprises Commercial Container Collection Program makes it simple. You receive free bins or bags, clear instructions and a collection schedule that works for you. Our team takes care of the rest.
Whether you run a café, a sports club or a large workplace, you can take part in the statewide Container Deposit Scheme without adding extra work to your day. You can choose to keep your refund or donate it to support the work that McCallum does in the community.
How your collection works
- Store your eligible containers in the free bins or bags we provide.
- When you want your bins emptied log in to your customer account and book a collection.
- Our team arrives and collects your containers.
- Your refund or donation is processed.
Have your payment made directly into your bank account or donate your refund to McCallum (a registered ACNC Charity) where every dollar goes directly back into creating positive outcomes for people with disability.
When you choose to donate, you are supporting meaningful employment, skill building and community inclusion. Your contribution helps McCallum continue providing opportunities that make a real difference in the lives of people with disability.
Why businesses join
- Lower waste costs
- A simple way to improve sustainability
- Support for social procurement goals
- A direct contribution to local employment for people with disability
- A cleaner, more sustainable community
Why this program matters
Every container you return helps reduce waste and increase recycling across Victoria. When you choose McCallum, your impact is even greater. You help create meaningful employment for people with disability and support a social enterprise that has been part of the community for generations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme?
It is a Victorian recycling program where you receive a refund for returning eligible drink containers.
Can my business join the commercial program?
Yes. Any business, club or organisation can take part. We supply the bins or bags and collect your containers for you.
How do I receive my refund?
Refunds are paid directly into your bank account once your containers are processed.
Can I donate my refund back to McCallum?
Yes. You can choose to donate your refund to McCallum, a registered ACNC Charity. Your donation directly supports people with disability.
How does the Container Deposit Scheme support people with disability?
Our depots and processing teams create meaningful employment for people with disability. Every container you return helps create more opportunities.
Why this program matters
Every bottle and can you return helps build a more inclusive and sustainable region. Whether you visit our depots or join our commercial collection program, your effort makes a real difference for the environment and for people with disability across Western Victoria.
