I note the Allan Labor Government's announcement this week regarding Victorian taxpayer investment into end-of-life recycling and battery management.
Whilst this announcement is a small step forward, other jurisdictions - such as New South Wales, through their Product Lifecycle Responsibility Act - are well ahead of where Victoria needs to be.
The reality is that 50,000 tonnes of lithium batteries are expected to reach end of life by 2030 in Australia.
The Liberals and Nationals are calling on the Allan Labor government to show greater leadership; to work with industry and develop a broader and comprehensive strategy regarding the battery circular economy.
Consideration must urgently be given to a package of measures that will strengthen community safety, reduce fire damage to council waste services, and recover valuable metals and minerals from used batteries.
As part of this strategy, greater producer responsibility must be considered as an important next step; especially given the benefits of urban mining and the reasonable expectation that producers take some responsibility for their product at end of life.
Only a more thoughtful and considered approach from the Allan Labor Government will give battery suppliers, battery users, and Victoria's waste industry the certainty and assurance that they need.
