The lack of Return and Earn collection points in the Hunter has prompted calls from the State Opposition for the government to fast-track the rollout of the scheme.
Three weeks after the launch of the scheme, the Hunter region has 11 of the 300 statewide collection points, which residents say has resulted in long queues and machines being out of service because they are too full.
State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said piles of rubbish has been accumulating around the machines as they become out of order or too full.
"We certainly do need to, when we roll out these machines, be mindful of the fact that people will be waiting to utilise them, that they are accessible for people with disabilities and, that people do not leave rubbish behind. There needs be bins and other things provided with extra collections being made for the removal of the rubbish as well.
"Unfortunately, while it is a wonderful scheme some of the minor issues have not been thought out yet. They need to to make it comfortable and convenient for the community," Ms Hornery said.
Ms Hornery said she had also written to the Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton asking for machines to be installed at Stockland Wallsend and Stockland Glendale.
It was announced earlier today that the NSW Government has partnered with Coles which Ms Upton said will "mean more locations for people to return their empty containers and receive their refund.”
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| Photo: 2GB Sydney. |
