Got a bunch of outdated laptops, phones and kitchen appliances cluttering your home? It's time to give those gadgets in an eco-friendly, stress-free way. Here's what you need to know about e-waste, the key regulations across Australia and exactly where you can drop off these old electronics.
What is E-Waste?
Electronic waste — e-waste — covers any device that has reached the end of its useful life. In a typical home, this could mean smart devices, office equipment, entertainment gear, kitchen appliances and tools.
When the likes of old phones, DVD players, printers, microwaves and power drills end up in landfills, they release harmful substances. Mercury, cadmium and lead make up around 70% of the toxic chemicals in the rubbish. In fact, Australia generated about 511,000 tonnes of e-waste in 2019, and this is forecast to rise by nearly 30% to 657,000 tonnes by 2030.
National and State Rules on E-Waste in Australia
The country's e-waste system is anchored on product stewardship, which means everyone from the producer to the end-user shares responsibility for a product's environmental footprint. Under the Product Stewardship Act 2011, this shared role takes three key forms:
National TV and Computer Recycling Scheme
The NTCRS program offers free recycling of printers, televisions and computers and their peripherals. Both households and small businesses may find the nearest collection point and drop their old devices off at no cost.
Battery and large appliance disposal
Because items like rechargeable batteries and whitegoods — ex. washing machines and fridges — contain hazardous parts, these often fall outside standard recycling streams. Most states now direct these to dedicated facilities where trained operators process them safely.
State-level landfill bans
Some states outlawed e-waste disposal in kerbside bins. For example, Victoria requires all e-waste to go to approved drop-off sites, with penalties for illegal disposal. Western Australia also bans regulated e-waste from landfills by service providers, businesses and landfill operators — while encouraging households to do the same.
Applying an ESG Mindset at Home
An ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategy isn't just for large corporations — you can use the same data-driven process in your own household:
- Environmental: Set a goal for how many gadgets you recycle every month and note the estimated tonnes you help divert from landfills
- Social: Invite your friends or the neighborhood to hold a gadget-collection day — coffee and biscuits on you.
- Governance: Keep a spreadsheet or online tracker of e-waste items, drop-off dates and quantities to measure your progress.
This method will turn e-waste disposal from a chore into a rewarding and measurable project. Over time, you'll build a household record of sustainability achievements that can inspire family and neighbors.
Where to Drop Your E-Waste
Ready to offload? Here are five options for e-waste disposal in Australia:
1. MobileMuster
MobileMuster accepts all brands of cellphones, chargers, batteries and accessories. Head to participating Vodafone, Optus or Telstra stores and look for those bright yellow recycling bins. Remember to remove any memory or SIM cards. If you are dropping off several loose batteries, seal them in a labelled plastic bag.
2. TechCollect
TechCollect accepts computers, TVs, printers and other peripherals. To find a collection point near you, enter your postcode on the TechCollect website. There are no fees for small businesses and households.
3. Officeworks
Most Officeworks branches take small e-waste items — handheld devices, cables, chargers — free of charge through its "Bring It Back" program. Simply hand your items over to customer service, and they'll bundle them for recycling under the NCTRS scheme.
4. Household hazardous waste facilities
State or council-run waste depots accept rechargeable batteries, appliances and hazardous e-waste items all year round. Find the drop-off requirements, schedules and nearest locations through your state EPA or council website.
5. Local collection events
Many councils conduct e-waste collection events, accepting everything from small appliances to household batteries. Details and sign-up links will be posted on your council's website, so keep an eye out for those announcements or give them a call.
Preparing for E-Waste Drop-Off
Remember the following before heading out to your nearest e-waste collection site:
- Bag your batteries properly, as many centres ask that these be disposed of in a clear and labelled bag
- Back up and wipe data on laptops, phones and tablets for your privacy.
- Verify which items are accepted at your drop-off before going.
Every Device Counts
When you properly dispose of that pile of gadgets at home, you're doing more than freeing up cabinet space — you're helping reduce toxic waste, protect waterways and support a circular economy. So gather your used tech and head over to your nearest drop-off point. A small effort today means a healthier planet tomorrow.
Guest Blog written by Jane Marsh
Jane is the editor-in-chief at Environment.co, specializing in sustainability, climate change, and renewable energy. In her free time, she enjoys nature trails, eco-friendly DIY projects, and volunteering with environmental groups.