Council urges residents to keep batteries out of bins
Published on 23 May 2025
Horsham Rural City Council is urging residents to keep batteries out of general waste and recycling bins, following a growing number of rubbish truck fires across Victoria and Australia linked to improper battery disposal.
The warning comes after Fire Rescue Victoria’s annual report, released last month, revealed the service is responding to almost one fire per day caused by lithium-ion batteries — and the trend is forecast to worsen.
In regional areas like Horsham, the risk is especially concerning. Numerous garbage truck fires have been reported across country Victoria, including a recent incident in Colac that led to a full truck load being dumped and extinguished by firefighters.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in devices such as mobile phones, laptops, power tools, vapes and e-scooters, are highly energy dense and pose a serious fire hazard. They can catch fire when overcharged, used with non-compliant chargers, or crushed or damaged — such as when compacted in garbage trucks.
Where to take batteries:
- Horsham Transfer Station, 93 Kenny Road, Haven
- Civic Centre, 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham
- Horsham Library, 28 McLachlan Street, Horsham.
Mayor Cr Ian Ross said the safety risk extended beyond property damage.
“When a fire breaks out in a garbage truck, it puts lives at risk — including drivers, emergency responders and the broader community. Safe disposal of batteries is a small action that makes a big difference,” Cr Ross said.
Council continues to work with state agencies to raise awareness and improve battery disposal options. Residents can visit the or contact Council on 5382 9777 for information on local disposal points.
Let’s work together to keep our waste collection safe — batteries don’t belong in the bin.