New South Wales is set to become the first state in Australia to introduce legislation that requires suppliers to take greater responsibility for the lifecycle management of products such as batteries, which pose significant safety and environmental risks.
The proposed Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act will establish mandatory stewardship schemes compelling manufacturers and suppliers to improve product design, promote reuse and recycling, and ensure safe disposal methods.
Batteries are the first products targeted under this legislation due to their increasing role in fire hazards. According to local fire services, lithium battery-related fires are among the fastest growing fire risks, with 10,000 to 12,000 incidents annually in waste facilities and transport caused by improper disposal and handling. Since 2024, fire services have responded to 384 lithium-ion battery incidents resulting in injuries and fatalities.
Under the new law, battery suppliers may be required to register products, support dedicated collection points, conduct public awareness campaigns, and improve battery design, packaging, and storage to enhance safety and recyclability.
The regulation will also cover embedded batteries found in everyday items such as cordless vacuums, electric toothbrushes, children’s toys, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Industry consultation has played an important role in shaping these reforms, which aim to reduce fire risks and environmental harm while supporting safer battery use.