Think Before You Bin Batteries

Published on 10 July 2025

Burdekin Shire Council is reminding residents to never dispose of batteries or battery-operated items in household waste or recycling bins, following a rise in dangerous battery-related incidents across Queensland.

Batteries can start fires when they are compacted or punctured in collection trucks or at waste facilities, creating serious safety risks for workers and the community. 

These fires can also cause major damage to local infrastructure and disrupt essential waste and recycling services.

Even ‘dead’ batteries hold residual charge and can be dangerous if not disposed of properly.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said it was critical the community remained vigilant when it comes to proper battery disposal.

“Many people don’t realise that batteries, even those in common items like toys or power tools, can be extremely hazardous when thrown in the bin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“It’s a small change to separate them from your general waste, but it makes a big difference when it comes to protecting our people, our facilities and the environment.

“We ask everyone to do their part by disposing of batteries responsibly and helping keep our region safe.”

In the past year alone, more than 200 battery-related fires have been reported across Queensland, many of them in waste trucks and facilities.

To help prevent sparks or short circuits, it is best practice to tape the terminals of lithium-ion and button batteries with clear sticky tape before dropping them off at a dedicated collection point.

Batteries should never be placed in general waste or recycling bins. Instead, they can be safely disposed of at Council’s Waste Transfer Stations and Landfill.

For a list of accepted battery types and drop-off locations, visit www.burdekin.qld.gov.au or contact Council for safe disposal advice.