“If we all put our hands together, we can do something to make a better community, and we can have a lasting impact. I encourage it so much. It helps the environment, keeps your community clean, and keeps your recycling bin empty. At the same time, the money we raise goes to a very important cause”.
At Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), we see every day how small actions – like returning a can or bottle – can create meaningful change.
For Craigieburn resident Mohammed Kalassina, returning containers through CDS Vic has become a powerful way to support families in need overseas.
For Mohammed, what began as a simple effort to recycle has grown into a community-led fundraising initiative. By collecting cans and bottles from neighbours, family members and colleagues, he has created a steady stream of donations that support families in Gaza.
“I believe that if you have the means to help others, you also have a responsibility,” Mohammed said.
After first hearing about Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme from a family friend, Mohammed decided to give it a try. He soon realised how quickly small refunds could add up.
“I never guessed it could be something we used to support people in Gaza – that something as basic as a few empty cans or bottles can mean survival for someone else.”
In the early stages, Mohammed was receiving around $30 to $40 per week in container refunds. As more people in his community began donating their eligible drink containers, that impact grew.
Today, Mohammed and his supporters raise up to $500 each month through returned containers – enough to provide life-saving meals to dozens of people.
“It’s gotten more and more popular, with people now contributing to our fundraising by giving me their containers. I’ve got family members who help me collect, and my next-door neighbour as well; we all pull our cans and bottles together,” Mr Kalassina said.
Stories like Mohammed’s show how Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme can support both environmental and social outcomes – reducing litter and landfill while helping communities fundraise.
Mohammed and his family then donate the container refunds to global aid charity, Muslims Around The World. The charity organisation provides essential aid in over 30 countries, including food, water and medical supplies.
