Australians Drowning in E-Waste: Urgent Call to Recycle Old Devices

As of November 16th, 2025, Australia's e-waste crisis has reached alarming levels. The country is generating 580,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually, nearly three times the global average. This staggering figure is expected to rise further as planned obsolescence, advancing technology, and genuine malfunctions continue to drive the rapid turnover of electronic devices.

Compounding the issue, an estimated 23 million mobile phones currently sit idle in Australian homes, with around 13 million of them being completely unusable. This represents a significant untapped resource that could be recycled and repurposed to support a more circular economy.

Experts emphasize the importance of proper e-waste disposal and recycling. Anne Stonier from the Australia New Zealand Recycling Platform (ANZRP) states, "It's the fastest growing waste stream but it's also the most valuable. By recycling it, you're making sure it is being properly managed. You're helping create a more circular economy."

Fortunately, Australians have access to various e-waste recycling programs and drop-off points, including those offered by local councils, major retailers, and industry initiatives like MobileMuster. However, more needs to be done to raise awareness and encourage widespread participation in these initiatives to address the country's growing e-waste crisis.