Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in Australia — and Perth is no exception. Old phones, laptops, printers, cables, TVs, and whitegoods all contain materials that can harm the environment if dumped in a landfill. But disposing of e-waste responsibly doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide walks you through what you need to know as a beginner in Perth, Western Australia.
1. Know the rules: e-waste is banned from landfills
As of 1 July 2024, the Western Australian government introduced a ban on regulated e-waste going to landfill. This means e-waste cannot go into your rubbish bin — you must use approved recycling or drop-off channels. While the regulation mainly applies to service providers, businesses, and landfill operators, households are strongly encouraged to comply. The ban helps prevent toxins like lead, mercury, and cadmium from contaminating soil and water while supporting resource recovery and sustainability.
2. What qualifies as “regulated e-waste”?
Regulated e-waste includes a wide range of devices and components:
- Screens, monitors, televisions
- Computers, laptops, tablets, hard drives, peripherals
- Printers, scanners, copiers
- Batteries (some exceptions for embedded batteries)
- Lighting equipment (LEDs, fluorescent tubes)
- Whitegoods and appliances (washing machines, ovens, refrigerators)
- Air conditioners, cooling, and heating equipment
- Cables, chargers, electronic toys, and more
Note: Some small devices, like toasters, may not yet fall under the regulated list.
3. Steps to Dispose of E-Waste Responsibly in Perth
a) Gather & sort your items
Collect unwanted electronics in one place. Group them into categories such as IT equipment, whitegoods, batteries, and lighting. Always remove personal data from devices (see Section 4).
b) Find approved drop-off locations
In Perth, you can take e-waste to:
- Recycling Centre Balcatta
- Tamala Park
- City of South Perth Recycling Centre
- West Metro Recycling Facility (perth.wa.gov.au)
You can also bring items to Universal Scrap Metal Perth, which accepts a wide range of e-waste and scrap metals. Our team ensures valuable resources are recovered and hazardous components are processed safely, supporting Perth waste management and eco-friendly outcomes.
c) Prepare for safe transport
- Wrap fragile items like screens.
- Label containers with batteries or hazardous parts.
- Keep categories separated.
- Wipe or back up personal data.
4. Protecting Your Data
Before disposal, protect your privacy:
- Back up important files.
- Factory reset or reformat devices.
- Physically destroy hard drives if possible.
5. Benefits of Proper E-Waste Disposal
Disposing of e-waste responsibly offers multiple advantages:
- Environmental protection: Minimise soil and water contamination from hazardous substances.
- Resource recovery: Valuable materials (precious metals, copper, rare earths, plastics) can be reclaimed and reused.
- Regulatory compliance: You avoid fines or penalties associated with illegal dumping.
- Community and health benefits: Reduce risks to waste workers and local wildlife.
- Supporting circular economy: Encouraging reuse and recycling helps reduce pressure on mining and manufacturing.
6. Challenges & Tips for Beginners
- Lack of awareness: Many households are unaware that e-waste should not be placed in general waste bins.
- Distance/access: Some drop-off centres may be far from your suburb. In such cases, collectors or mobile recycling events can help.
- Costs for certain items: For some bulky appliances or non-NTCRS items, there might be charges. Always check beforehand.
- Proper sorting: Mixing incompatible waste types can slow down recycling or lead to contamination.
Tips:
- Use council websites or apps (e.g., Recycle Right) to find nearby e-waste drop-off points.
- Keep lists or photos of your e-waste so you know what to dispose of next time.
- Ask your electronics retailer: many offer “take-back” schemes when you purchase new equipment.
- Spread the word: encourage neighbours, friends, and family to do the same.
7. How Universal Scrap Metal Can Help
At Universal Scrap Metal (Perth), we specialize in handling scrap metals and e-waste in an environmentally responsible way. Whether you have old appliances, electronics, wiring, or computer parts, we can assist:
- We accept many kinds of e-waste and separate valuable metals for recycling.
- We ensure that hazardous components (like batteries, capacitors, mercury lamps) are handled safely.
- For larger quantities, we may offer collection or drop-in services.
By choosing a reputable recycler like us, you gain peace of mind that your e-waste isn’t ending up in a landfill or causing harm.
Conclusion
E-waste disposal in Perth doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the landfill ban now in place, it’s both a responsibility and an opportunity to make more sustainable choices. By understanding what counts as regulated e-waste, using approved drop-offs or collection services, and protecting your data, you can play your part in turning waste into resources.
If you need help identifying where to take your items, or want a quote on collection by Universal Scrap Metal, just get in touch — we’re here to help you recycle smarter, cleaner, and more responsibly.
FAQs
1. What is considered e-waste in Perth?
E-waste includes old electronics and appliances such as TVs, computers, printers, cables, whitegoods, batteries, and lighting equipment. These items cannot be placed in your regular rubbish bin.
2. Does e-waste recycling cost money?
Many items are accepted for free under recycling programs. However, certain bulky appliances or non-NTCRS items may have a disposal fee. Check with your chosen facility before dropping off.
3. Why is proper e-waste disposal important?
It prevents toxic substances from entering soil and water, supports resource recovery, and contributes to Perth’s sustainability goals and eco-friendly waste management.
4. Can I throw small electronics like toasters or hairdryers in the bin?
Not always. While some smaller appliances may not yet be classed as “regulated e-waste,” it’s best to take them to a recycling centre or Universal Scrap Metal Perth to ensure safe disposal.
5. Can I drop off e-waste at Universal Scrap Metal in Perth?
Yes. Universal Scrap Metal accepts a wide range of e-waste and scrap metals at our Cannington drop-off location, which is open 7 days a week. Simply bring your items during opening hours.