L-R: Jim Round (VicReturn CEO), Steve Dimopoulos MP, Tom De Koning (Carlton FC), Greg Madigan (Head of AFL Victoria). Image: Luke Hemer
AFL Victoria is proud to announce an exciting partnership with Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), coming on board until the end of the 2027 community football season.
The partnership is aimed at driving environmental action and fundraising for grassroots clubs across the state through the recycling of eligible drink containers.
Through this collaboration, local football clubs will have the opportunity to boost their fundraising efforts by becoming Donation Partners in the CDS Vic scheme. The initiative provides Victorians with a 10-cent refund for every eligible drink container returned - offering individuals the choice to keep the refund or donate it directly to participating clubs or charities.
Community football clubs across Victoria can sign up as official Donation Partners to receive a unique ID. That allows supporters to donate the funds from their container refunds to them at designated CDS Vic refund points.
Clubs can also boost collections by encouraging members to bring containers they collect throughout the week to games, training sessions, and return points in their communities.
Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan said the partnership is a great way to assist clubs in their fundraising efforts throughout the season.
“We know one of the main challenges for our clubs is finding ways that time-poor volunteers can raise funds for necessary upgrades to club equipment, uniforms and other expenses throughout the season,” Madigan said.
“Partnering with CDS Vic allows our communities to make a real difference to their local club whilst also making a positive difference on the environment. Many people are already collecting and recycling their containers through the scheme, and now they can put the funds from the returns to good use in their local communities.”
To help clubs get started, every team that activates their Donation Partner ID before 30 June 2025 will receive a starter pack, including collection bags and promotional posters.
For more information and to register, visit cdsvic.org.au/afl-victoria.
About Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme
Since the scheme’s launch in November 2023, over 1.8 billion containers have already been returned, with more than $1.9 million raised through Donation Partners. These funds have helped local clubs across the state purchase new uniforms, upgrade facilities, and replace essential equipment.
"This is a win-win for community sport and the environment," said VicReturn CEO Jim Round, coordinator of Victoria's Container Deposit Scheme.
"By returning drink containers, fans and families can help reduce litter and directly support their local footy club at the same time.
“Register your club at our website and start turning empty drink bottles and cans into funding dollars.”