The Northern Territory Government has announced it will continue its Container Deposit Scheme for a further eight weeks while it mounts a challenge against the Federal Court’s decision that concluded companies did not have to comply with the scheme.

Territory Minister for the Environment, Peter Chandler, said that the scheme continued to enjoy popular support and would be given an extension of eight weeks from 27 March.

“We need time to gain  the Council of Australian Governments  (COAG) exemption from the Mutual Recognition Act but we are confident of their support,” Mr Chandler said.

“This decision also gives time to mount an appeal against the recent Federal Court of Australia decision which found the drink companies did not have to comply with the scheme.

  “Despite extensive negotiations to request voluntary participation in the scheme three major beverage suppliers, and some smaller companies, have declared they will discontinue their involvement in the CDS,” he said.

 “Collection depot operators have clearly articulated that they cannot viably operate without the involvement of these companies and will be forced to close their operations."