Cashing in containers gives Queenslanders $10 million so far

The milestone was reached after two months.

From November 1, Queenslanders were able to claim a 10¢ refund for most plastic drink containers, beer bottles and aluminium cans at more than 200 collection points across the state.

Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said it was a mammoth achievement, with great participation from people who had returned containers and from those running the scheme.

"Around $10 million has been returned to the pockets of Queenslanders, community groups and charities," she said.

"Queenslanders have absolutely embraced this scheme and I want to thank everybody for really taking on board the opportunity to not only ensure that we are removing plastic containers and other beverage containers from the litter scheme but also supporting recycling in our state."

There have been 70,000 Queenslanders registered to receive refunds and thousands of community groups, charities, sporting clubs and schools.

"Increasing recycling levels is also delivering jobs for Queenslanders, with more than 500 jobs created throughout the state as a result of the new refund points set up," Ms Enoch said.

Container Exchange CEO Ken Noye said the scheme would continue to grow in 2019, with more refund points expected.

However, there have been teething problems, including the unavailability of required bags and difficulties finding drop-off locations.

Ms Enoch said there was always room for improvement.

"Just remembering, that this is still only two months old, this scheme, this is a major, major project for Queensland and to see so many people taking it on in the way that they have has been fantastic," she said.

"There are still some small businesses that are catching up with the huge demand that they've been faced with in their local areas.

"I know there's lots of people working hard to ensure all those teething problems are slowly being worked out."

- with Toby Crockford