Through ongoing investments in technology, infrastructure and technical expertise, EcoBatt supports the development of Australia's onshore battery recycling industry. It works with retailers, councils, government and industry partners to make responsible battery recycling a practical choice for more Australians.

Why is battery recycling important

Batteries contain valuable materials that can be recovered and used again, but they can also pose serious safety risks when disposed of incorrectly.

Batteries should never go in household rubbish or kerbside recycling bins. Even when they no longer power a device, they can still pose a fire risk. Lithium-ion batteries can be crushed or damaged in kerbside collection trucks and processing equipment, causing them to overheat and ignite. These fires can threaten the safety of waste workers and the community, damage trucks and recycling facilities, and disrupt essential waste services.

Using a dedicated battery collection service keeps batteries separate from general waste and mixed recycling. Small, undamaged household batteries should be taken to a dedicated battery collection point, with their terminals covered using clear adhesive tape before drop-off.

Damaged, swollen or leaking batteries pose an increased fire risk and require specialist handling. Do not place them in a public battery collection bin, household rubbish or kerbside recycling bin. Contact your local council or a specialist battery recycling provider for advice on appropriate disposal before transporting them.

Find out how to recycle your batteries.

What happens to batteries after collection?

Collected batteries undergo specialist sorting and processing to recover materials for further use. Depending on the battery type, recovered materials can include copper, aluminium, steel, manganese, zinc, lithium, cobalt and nickel.

These materials can support a range of manufacturing and industrial applications, helping keep valuable resources in circulation.

Supporting National Recycling Week

By supporting National Recycling Week, EcoBatt is helping Australians understand what happens to their batteries after collection and the role they can play in keeping recoverable materials in use.

Learn more about EcoBatt.