Melbourne Stars Partner with VicReturn to Drive Circular Economy in Cricket

The Melbourne Stars have announced a new three-year partnership with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (VicReturn), marking a significant step in the club’s broader Team Green sustainability platform.

Launched in conjunction with Green Sports Day 2025, positions the Big Bash League club as an active player in Victoria’s circular economy, leveraging sport’s influence to encourage behavioural change among fans and community clubs.

Under the partnership, all 10-cent refunds collected through the Stars’ container recycling efforts will be directed to the Cricket Victoria Foundation, which funds programs improving accessibility and participation in cricket.

A Sustainability-led Commercial Partnership

Melbourne Stars General Manager, Max Abbott, said the collaboration provides dual value: reducing the club’s environmental footprint while generating funds for community cricket.

“This partnership has many positives for us; not only are we reducing waste, we are also raising funds for grassroots cricket while doing it,” Abbott said.

At the venue level, the partnership will see VicReturn branding featured across LED signage and big screens at the MCG and CitiPower Centre, extending the scheme’s public visibility and engagement with cricket audiences.

Describing the initiative as an example of sport’s power to inspire positive change, VicReturn interim CEO, Marianne Doyle, said: “Together, we’re not only protecting the planet, but giving local cricket clubs a simple, sustainable way to fundraise.”

Grassroots and Premier Cricket clubs across Victoria will also be encouraged to register with the Container Deposit Scheme and reinvest recycling refunds into their own community initiatives.

The collaboration aligns with the Victorian Government’s environmental priorities, as more than 2.2 billion drink containers have been returned through CDS Vic since its launch. Minister for the Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the partnership will “drive real change” by boosting recycling, reducing litter, and inspiring community action for a cleaner environment.

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