Batteries don’t belong in any bin
Improperly disposing of batteries in household bins poses a significant fire risk. When crushed or punctured in collection vehicles or at waste facilities, batteries—especially lithium-ion types—can ignite. These fires spread rapidly, endanger workers, damage equipment and disrupt essential recycling and waste services. Even small household batteries can cause major incidents.
To keep our community safe, batteries must never be placed in the red, yellow or green kerbside bin, or put out for hard waste collection.
How to dispose of batteries responsibly
Residents can safely recycle batteries through the following options:
Household battery recycling drop-offs
Many supermarkets, hardware stores and electronics retailers accept common household batteries, including AA, AAA, button cells, rechargeable batteries and power tool batteries. These services are free for residents – see www.bcycle.com.au for more information.
Council and NAWMA Resource Recovery Centres
Batteries of all types—including lithium-ion, lead-acid (car), rechargeable, e-bike and e-scooter batteries—can be dropped off at NAWMA’s Resource Recovery Centres (Edinburgh North or Pooraka] for safe handling and recycling.
E-waste recycling
Batteries contained within electronic devices (e.g. phones, laptops, toys, vapes) should be recycled with e-waste at approved Hazardous Waste Depots, including NAWMA’s Edinburgh North Resource Recovery Centre. Do not remove embedded batteries yourself.
How to store batteries safely before disposal
• Keep used batteries in a cool, dry place.
• Tape the terminals batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, to prevent short-circuiting.
• Keep damaged, swollen or overheating batteries isolated in non-flammable containers and take them to a Hazardous Waste Depot immediately.
By keeping batteries out of household bins and using dedicated battery recycling services, residents help prevent fires, protect workers and support safe resource recovery.
For more information on safe battery disposal, visit:
www.bcycle.com.au
www.fire.nsw.gov.au/batteries
Lithium-ion battery awareness | Metropolitan Fire Service
