If you’ve ever grumbled about the rising cost of living or wondered how to make a little extra cash without picking up a second job, you might want to take a leaf out of Sayo Leahy’s book.
An Australian and self-proclaimed ‘binfluencer’, has managed to turn the humble act of collecting cans and bottles into a tidy $15,000 windfall—all thanks to a recently launched container deposit scheme.
You read that right: $15,000, just from picking up what most of us walk past every day.
From trash to treasure
39-year-old Melburnian Sayo’s journey began in November 2023, when Victoria finally joined the rest of the country in rolling out its own container deposit scheme.
For every eligible can or bottle returned, you get 10 cents. It might not sound like much, but as Sayo points out, ‘People don’t realise 10 cents can really add up and help, especially since you can just put your can next to your bin and then donate them.’
Armed with a keen eye and a trusty ute, Sayo scours the suburbs—sometimes on dedicated ‘bin nights’ before rubbish collection, other times just while out for a stroll.
‘There’s always cans on the side of the road, wherever you go there’s always trash,’ she says. Her efforts have not only padded her own wallet, but also allowed her to donate to charities, proving that a little effort can go a long way.
Of course, Sayo is quick to acknowledge the costs involved—fuel and wear and tear on her vehicle—but the rewards, both financial and environmental, have been well worth it.
Why the container deposit scheme matters
Victoria was the last state to introduce a container deposit scheme, but it’s quickly catching up. The program is simple: collect eligible drink containers, return them to a collection point, and pocket 10 cents per item. It’s a win-win for the environment and your bank balance.
To sweeten the deal, the state government is currently running a ‘Win a Million Cents’ competition, with five $10,000 prizes up for grabs for anyone who returns at least 50 containers in a single donation before June 15.
Sayo herself attended the launch party—on her birthday, no less!
It’s not just about the money
While the extra cash is a welcome bonus, the scheme is also about making a positive impact. Every can or bottle collected is one less piece of litter polluting our parks, beaches, and streets.
And it’s not just individuals getting involved—schools are running recycling competitions, and national programs like Mobile Muster and TerraCycle are making it easier to recycle everything from old phones to beauty product packaging.
How you can get involved
You don’t need to become a full-time ‘OnlyCans’ enthusiast to make a difference. Here are a few easy ways to get started:
Collect as You Go: Keep a bag in your car or by your front door for cans and bottles you find while out and about.
Get the Family Involved: Make it a fun challenge with the grandkids or neighbours—who can collect the most in a week?
Donate Your Returns: If you don’t need the extra cash, consider donating your returns to a local charity or community group.
Join Local Initiatives: Many schools and community groups are running their own recycling drives—why not lend a hand?
A step towards a greener Australia
With every state and territory now running their own container deposit schemes, Aussies are making a real dent in the nation’s waste problem. It’s a small change in habit that can have a big impact—on your wallet, your community, and the planet.
Have your say!
Have you tried your hand at collecting cans and bottles for cash? Do you have any tips or stories to share? Or maybe you’ve spotted a creative way your community is getting involved in recycling? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Also read: How you could win $10,000 just by recycling—Aussies everywhere are cashing in!
My wife saves all our empty cans, bottles and other 10 Cent eligible containers in garbage bags.
Every couple of months we have four or five bags full and take them to MAMS our local collection depot and collect $40 to $50 in refunds.
Being pensioners it’s a nice little boost for her.