Schools set to benefit from new Container Refund Scheme

Education Minister Grace Grace has committed $100,000 to support P&Cs Qld’s plans to roll-out the Container Refund Scheme (CRS) in Queensland state schools.

Ms Grace made the announcement at the annual P&Cs Qld state conference in Brisbane today.

“As many people would be aware, the Palaszczuk Government is encouraging recycling by introducing a Container Refund Scheme from 1 November this year,” Ms Grace said.

“This means a 10 cent refund will be available for every eligible drink container returned in Queensland.

“P&Cs Qld is developing a plan to leverage this opportunity as a fundraising initiative for schools and to also help encourage students to be environmentally conscious.

“I am pleased announce my Department will support P&Cs Qld in developing this initiative by providing $100,000 in funding to commence a pilot project in up to 20 schools.

“I encourage P&Cs who may interested in getting involved in this program to register their interest on the P&Cs Qld website.”

P&Cs Qld chief executive officer Kevan Goodworth welcomed the Government’s support.

“The state school network of more than 1240 sites spread Queensland presents both incredible opportunities and challenges,” Mr Goodworth said.

“We are intending to work with all of the stakeholders including P&Cs, principals, departmental staff, unions and waste collectors to build a network of donation sites and collection methods.

“P&Cs Qld would like to see as many schools as possible benefit from this program.”

The 2018 P&Cs Qld state conference marks the first time the parent and school community organisation has partnered with the Department of Education to deliver a combined conference for both school leaders and P&C members.

Schools can find more information about the CRS project and a survey to indicate interest at the P&Cs Qld website: https://pandcsqld.com.au/community-awareness-queensland-container-refund-scheme/.

Media contact: Emma Clarey – 0439 578 472