NSW Leads the way: first state to regulate batteries

By Matt Culic, 19 Aug 2025, VIC

Reading Time: 2 mins read

The NSW Government has introduced landmark legislation. the Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act,making NSW the first state in Australia to regulate batteries under a mandatory product stewardship framework. This nation-leading reform is designed to reduce battery related fires, improve recycling, and ensure suppliers take greater responsibility for the full lifecycle of their products.

Pile of used batteries, including Duracell, Energizer, and other brands.

At Circular Futures Group, we see this as a pivotal moment for both businesses and government agencies working toward a safer, more sustainable future.

Lithium-ion batteries power our everyday lives, but they also pose growing risks:

  • 10,000–12,000 fires every year in trucks and waste facilities are linked to improper battery disposal.

  • Since 2024, Fire and Rescue NSW has responded to 384 incidents, with at least 33 injuries and multiple fatalities.

    These figures highlight why urgent action is needed — and why this legislation is so important.

Why Batteries Are Being Regulated

What the New Law Requires

If passed, the new Act will require suppliers to:

  • Register products for compliance and safe disposal.

  • Provide dedicated collection points for recycling.

  • Run education campaigns to raise public awareness.

  • Improve design and packaging for safety and recyclability.

    Crucially, the rules don’t just cover large batteries — they also include embedded batteries in common devices like cordless vacuums, e-bikes, toys, and power tools..

This legislation will create both challenges and opportunities for businesses, councils, and government agencies. That’s where Circular Futures Group comes in.

As specialists in waste management consulting and circular economy solutions, we help organisations

  • Understand compliance obligations — We analyse your product lines and operations to ensure you meet NSW’s new requirements.

  • Develop stewardship strategies — From safe disposal programs to collection systems, we design solutions that fit your business model and community needs.

  • Engage stakeholders — We facilitate collaboration between government, industry, and the public to ensure smooth implementation.

  • Maximise sustainability impact — Beyond compliance, we help businesses adopt circular economy principles that reduce costs, create new revenue streams, and demonstrate environmental leadership.
    Educate and upskill teams — We design training and public engagement campaigns to improve awareness of safe battery use and disposal.

How Circular Futures Group Can Help

Why This Matters for Businesses and Government

For businesses, compliance will no longer be optional. Those who act early can avoid penalties, build stronger customer trust, and lead the way in sustainable product design.

For government agencies, the legislation is a chance to partner with industry and deliver safer, more effective waste and recycling systems that protect communities and the environment.

Partner with Circular Futures

At Circular Futures Group (CFG), we are confident in delivering waste management solutions that support industry, community, and local government in building safer, more sustainable systems. Our mission is to turn waste into opportunity, helping organisations reduce risk, lower costs, and unlock the benefits of the circular economy.

With expertise in product stewardship, recycling systems, and sustainability consulting, CFG is uniquely positioned to help stakeholders meet the requirements of the NSW Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act — and go beyond compliance to achieve innovative, circular outcomes.

Whether you are a business, government agency, or local council, we can provide tailored waste management consulting that improves efficiency, drives compliance, and delivers measurable environmental and social impact

Get in touch today to discover how Circular Futures Group can help you build a cleaner, safer, and more circular future.

Explore how our circular economy consulting services can help your business close the loop and thrive in a resource-conscious future.

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Partner With Us for Smarter Waste Management 

Get in touch today to discover how Circular Futures Group can help you build a cleaner, safer, and more circular future.