Port Macquarie Hastings Council has launched a new campaign to promote battery recycling – just as the NSW Government passes landmark legislation to make battery stewardship mandatory.
Batteries don’t belong in any bin. They contain hazardous chemicals that can spark fires in bins, waste trucks, and facilities – and can harm the environment if they leak. That’s why Port Macquarie Hastings Council is launching the “Don’t Bin Me” battery recycling education campaign, encouraging our community to recycle batteries safely and keep them out of landfill.
This campaign comes at the perfect time, with NSW passing the Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act 2025, making batteries the first product to be regulated under this new law. The Act will require battery brand owners to participate in a regulated product stewardship scheme, ensuring they all contribute to safe and responsible battery recycling.
Why can't I put my batteries in the bin?
According to the June 2024 Report into Battery Fires in Waste and Recycling, there are 10,000 to 12,000 battery-related fires in Australian waste and recycling facilities in each year, putting lives and facilities at risk.
Batteries also contain valuable materials, with up to 95% of their components able to be recycled.
Unfortunately, many people are still unsure about how to dispose of batteries the right way – or they don’t realise just how dangerous binning them can be.
What should I do with used batteries?
Batteries should be taken to designated recycling drop-off points. You’ll find free recycling locations at libraries, supermarkets, and other collection points around the region.
Visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/batteries for a full listing of different battery types and where you can dispose of them responsibly.
In exciting news, we now also have a solution for embedded batteries – batteries that can’t be easily removed from devices like ear pods, e-scooters and electric toothbrushes. These can now be dropped off for free at the Kingfisher Waste Transfer Station in Port Macquarie.
"Don't Bin Me!"
The PMHC “Don’t Bin Me” campaign is designed to make battery safety top of mind for our community!
Got questions about battery recycling, safe storage, or other waste topics? Come chat with us at one of our upcoming community pop-up events:
Tuesday 8th April – Town Green 2.30pm – 4.30pm
Wednesday 9th April – Wauchope IGA 10am – 12pm
Tuesday 15th April – Bain Park Wauchope 10am – 12pm
Noticed our stickers on your local waste truck? Keep an eye out for our upcoming competition, where you can go in the draw to win a $50 gift voucher!
Want to help spread the word in your school, workplace or community centre? Email us at education@pmhc.nsw.gov.au and we’ll drop out a range of education materials to support you.
