How can I recycle my used batteries?
Recycling for undamaged batteries
Lithium-ion batteries can not be placed into home garbage or recycling bins. They can cause fires during waste collection, transportation, handling and processing.
Small, undamaged batteries (not swollen, punctured, or leaking, etc.) can be safely disposed of at a battery recycling drop off point. It is recommended that battery terminals are taped over with clear adhesive tape before placing the battery carefully (without dropping it) into a battery recycling collection bin.
Information on where and how to dispose of used batteries can be found from:
- B-cycle [external link]
- Recycle Mate [external link]
- Community Recycling Centres (EPA): epa.nsw.gov.au [external link]
- Planet Ark [external link]
- Mobile Muster [external link]
- Australian Battery Recycler’s Initiative [external link]
What should I do if my device or battery is damaged?
Batteries that show signs of damage including swelling or bulging, leaking, cracks, dents, punctures, or crushing should be disposed of carefully as described below. Never throw them in your regular waste or recycling collection bins.
Batteries that have had water or liquid ingress or have been submerged in water can also be extremely dangerous and should be treated as damaged. Where possible, remove them from any device or appliance, dry and wipe down terminals to prevent corrosion and short circuiting.
Place leaking or damaged (but not overheated or off-gassing) batteries in a clear plastic bag and take them to a Community Recycling Centre [external link] or a Household Chemical CleanOut event [external link] for disposal.