The Northern Territory Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) will expand from 1 July 2026 to include all beverage containers up to 3 litres in volume.
New container types being brought into the scheme include:
- Wine bottles
- Spirit bottles
- Plain milk containers
- Other beverage containers previously excluded from the CDS
What retailers need to know
Retailers are not required to accept returned containers, pay refunds, or operate collection depots unless they choose to do so and obtain the relevant approvals.
However, beverage containers covered by the CDS must be registered before they can be supplied for sale in the Northern Territory.
The NT EPA has advised that registration can be undertaken by a manufacturer, importer, distributor or retailer, depending on the circumstances.
For most retailers sourcing products through established suppliers, registration is likely to be managed elsewhere in the supply chain. However, retailers introducing niche, specialty or directly imported products should ensure CDS requirements have been considered before those products are offered for sale.
Transition arrangements
The NT Government has provided transition periods for refund markings on newly regulated containers:
- Wine and spirits: 1 July 2028
- Other newly regulated containers: 1 July 2027
MGA seeking further clarification
MGA has sought further guidance from the NT EPA regarding retailer compliance obligations under the expanded scheme and will provide members with updates as additional information becomes available.
Webinar Registration
The NT Circular Economy are hosting a number of informational webinars for suppliers and retailers to learn more about what the changes mean for beverage suppliers and retailers, how to register as a CDS supplier in the NT scheme, what to do if you are already registered, where to find more information on the changes, and who to contact for assistance.
Key Contacts
NT Government
Questions about scheme requirements including CDS supplier applications
Visit the industry information page: Container deposit scheme industry information | NTEPA
Contact Environment Regulation: containerdeposit.ntepa@nt.gov.au
