Battery Recycling Guide for Australia
Used batteries are classified as hazardous waste in Australia and should never go in general rubbish or household recycling bins. They contain metals and electrolytes that can leak into soil and waterways if they end up in landfill. The good news: it’s now easy to recycle AA, AAA and other household batteries across Australia using free drop-off points.
Why You Should Recycle Batteries
- Protect the environment: Batteries can leak heavy metals and chemicals if they are crushed or exposed to moisture in landfill.
- Recover valuable materials: Recycling allows metals like lithium, nickel and steel to be recovered and reused.
- Reduce fire risk: Loose batteries in rubbish trucks and waste facilities can short-circuit and cause fires.
Where to Recycle Batteries in Australia
Most Australians are within a short drive of a battery recycling drop-off point. Common locations include supermarkets, hardware stores and council facilities.
- Major retailers: Many branches of ALDI, Officeworks and Bunnings have battery recycling bins near the entrance or service desk.
- Council collection points: Local councils often provide battery drop-off at waste transfer stations, libraries or community centres.
- Special e-waste events: Some councils run periodic e-waste collection days where you can bring batteries, electronics and small appliances.
Check your local council website for specific locations and opening hours, or search for “battery recycling near me” to find the closest drop-off point.
How to Store Batteries Safely Before Recycling
- Keep batteries in a container: Use a small box or jar to collect used AA, AAA and other household batteries.
- Tape the terminals for larger batteries: For lithium or 9V batteries, cover the terminals with non-conductive tape to reduce short-circuit risk.
- Avoid heat and moisture: Store used batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Which Batteries Can Be Recycled?
Most household batteries can be recycled, including:
- Alkaline AA and AAA
- Rechargeable NiMH and lithium-ion cells
- Button cells (from watches, remotes and small devices)
Some locations may have restrictions on car batteries or large industrial batteries, so always check the guidelines for your chosen drop-off point.
Strike Batteries and Responsible Recycling
Strike Batteries designs products with recyclable packaging and clear end-of-life guidance to make responsible disposal easier. When your rechargeable AA batteries eventually reach the end of their life, store them safely and take them to a recognised battery recycling point rather than throwing them in the bin.
By recycling batteries and choosing long-life rechargeable options, you reduce waste, conserve resources and help keep hazardous materials out of landfill.