Cents of Service
Turn your containers into care
Your empties can help support police veterans and their families.
What is Cents of Service?
Cents of Service is Police Veterans Victoria’s new year-round container recycling initiative.
By returning your eligible bottles, cans, and cartons through Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) locations, you can choose to donate the 10c refund to PVV; helping us continue our mission to support police veterans and their families.
It’s simple, impactful, and powered by everyday Australians who want to give back.
Why it matters
Every year, thousands of Victoria Police veterans live with the physical and psychological toll of service. Many face challenges around mental health, injury, connection, and purpose
Your recycling helps us:
- Deliver wellbeing support
- Strengthen peer-to-peer programs
- Build community connection
- Provide resources to veterans in need
Every container adds up.
Every dollar shows you care.
How it works
Support PVV by returning eligible containers in three quick steps:
1. Collect your containers
Look for:
- Aluminium cans
- Plastic bottles
- Glass bottles
- Juice boxes & cartons
Tip: If it’s labelled “10c refund”, it’s good to go.
2. Visit a CDS Return Point
Take your bag of containers to a CDS location near you.
3.Donate your refund to PVV
When returning containers, select or enter:
Police Veterans Victoria
Your 10c per container comes straight to PVV.
Where the idea came from
The inspiration behind Cents of Service began with Detective Acting Sergeant Leigh Nicholds, a passionate recycler who wanted to find a meaningful way to support police veterans.
By combining his love of recycling with his commitment to service, Leigh helped shape the idea that everyday people could make a real difference — one container at a time.
Small change. Big impact.
Where your funds go
All funds raised go directly toward supporting the wellbeing of police veterans through:
- Clinical support
- Veteran peer programs
- Connection activities & events
- Outreach and engagement
Our goal is to ensure every veteran feels seen, valued, and supported — during and beyond their service.
Other Ways You Can Help
Want to make an even bigger impact?
You can also:
- Make a tax-deductible donation
- Host a PVV fundraiser
- Become a corporate supporter
- Volunteer
FAQs
What containers are eligible?
Most aluminium, plastic and glass beverage containers between 150ml and 3L displaying “10c refund.” Make sure your containers are not crushed so the barcode is readable.
Can I return containers from interstate?
Only eligible containers processed through approved Victorian CDS points are valid.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Funds donated via container refunds are not tax-deductible, but direct donations to PVV are.
Is this a limited-time campaign?
No — Cents of Service runs all year round.