Win for Greens: government has hissy fit

In an historic win, the Greens private member's bill for a 10c deposit on drink bottles, cans and cartons in Victoria has passed in the State Upper House.

The government quickly moved to block debate in the lower house.

"This is the first Greens private member's bill to pass a house of parliament in Victoria", said Greens MLC Colleen Hartland.

"The government blocked debate in the lower house, on a legal technicality.  The government has reformed the upper house, but sooner or later they are going to have to accept that the Greens are here."

"Victoria has historically been the biggest opponent of a national container deposit scheme.  So it was great to have a majority of MPs saying that they support a national scheme, but they also think Victoria should take this step forward on their own."

"This campaign came from the community.  It remains a community supported campaign.  94% of Victorians support a container deposit system, and now the Legislative Council of Victorian Parliament also supports it."

"The government should understand how damaging it is to them to oppose a move which is supported throughout the community."