The Victorian Government says it is expanding battery recycling infrastructure across the state, announcing 50 additional collection points aimed at making it safer and easier for households to dispose of used batteries.
In a media release, the state government said the rollout would be supported through funding to local councils and registered charities, with 17 existing sites also set to be upgraded to increase their capacity to handle larger volumes of batteries.
Victorian Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the expansion was designed to reduce safety risks and improve environmental outcomes.
“We’re making it safer and easier to dispose of batteries, reducing fire risks and protecting our environment from harmful chemicals,” Dimopoulos said.
According to the government, batteries require specialist recycling processes because they can pose a fire risk if damaged or compacted in rubbish trucks. Improper disposal can lead to ignition under pressure, particularly when batteries are placed in kerbside bins.
The government said more than 30 of the new or upgraded drop-off locations would be based in regional Victoria, with the aim of improving access for communities outside metropolitan areas.
Juliana Addison, Member for Wendouree, said the additional sites would benefit regional families.
“By having easy to access battery recycling collection points in regional communities, families can spend more time together,” Ms Addison said.
“By expanding battery recycling collection points, we will keep workers and families safe from fires risks.”
The Victorian Government said recycling batteries helps divert hazardous materials from landfill while allowing valuable metals such as copper, nickel and steel to be recovered and reused in new products.
The expansion forms part of the government’s Small Acts Big Impact campaign, which encourages households to recycle correctly and reminds residents that batteries and e-waste should not be placed in kerbside bins.
Victorians can locate their nearest battery recycling point through the Recycle Mate website.
