New Battery Management Regulations Proposed in New South Wales

New South Wales has taken a pioneering step toward battery regulation and recycling, becoming the first state in Australia to draft laws focused on the safe handling and disposal of batteries. The newly proposed framework, now open for public consultation, represents a significant shift toward sustainable energy management and environmental protection in the battery sector.

Under the draft plan, battery brand owners — those who place batteries on the NSW market — would be held accountable for their products throughout the entire life cycle, from design and manufacture to battery disposal and recycling. The initiative reflects Australia’s growing emphasis on the circular economy and product stewardship, addressing concerns about lithium-ion battery fires and hazardous waste accumulation.

Addressing a Growing Environmental and Safety Risk

The sharp rise in battery-related fires in recent years has been linked to the growing use of lithium-ion batteries in devices like e-bikes, e-scooters, and portable electronics. Such incidents are difficult to control and can endanger waste operators, emergency services, and local communities.

The proposed regulation aims to mitigate these risks by requiring the safe collection, management, and recycling of batteries. By keeping used batteries out of household waste, the initiative seeks to protect public safety, prevent pollution, and strengthen the resilience of the waste management and resource recovery sectors.

Key Measures in the Draft Regulation

Developed under the Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act 2025, the proposed legislation provides a legal framework for manufacturers and distributors to manage the environmental impact of their products. Batteries are the first product group covered under this Act, setting the stage for future regulation of other electronic and hazardous materials.

The draft regulation introduces several important measures:

• Mandatory participation in an approved battery product stewardship scheme for all battery suppliers.
• Strict penalties for non-compliance, with potential fines of up to AUD 880,000.
• Reporting obligations detailing the quantity of batteries supplied annually within New South Wales.
• Inclusion of small batteries (under five kilograms), including those built into e-mobility products and consumer electronics.
• Designated collection and recycling channels to prevent unsafe or improper battery disposal.
• Public education programs on battery risks, safe storage, and correct recycling practices.

If enacted, these measures would establish New South Wales as a national leader in battery recycling and circular economy innovation. The state would set a benchmark for reducing hazardous waste and building a more sustainable energy future.