The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted a five-year exemption to the Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) for its B-cycle Battery Stewardship Scheme. This decision allows BSC members and industry participants to operate the Scheme without violating competition laws.

The primary goal of the Scheme is to enhance the disposal and recycling of end-of-life batteries in Australia, which is expected to yield significant environmental benefits by reducing landfill waste and minimizing fire risks associated with battery handling.

ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh emphasized the potential for the Scheme to foster research and innovation in battery disposal and reuse. However, he noted that participation rates have been low, partly due to the voluntary nature of the Scheme.

While the ACCC acknowledges the need for higher participation rates to maximize public benefits, it clarified that it is not responsible for developing mandatory battery stewardship policies, which fall under government jurisdiction.

To ensure safety, particularly concerning button batteries, the ACCC has mandated that the BSC maintain its Button Battery Safety Strategy, aimed at educating consumers about the risks associated with these batteries.

The ACCC has also required the BSC to publish an annual report on the Scheme's outcomes and to conduct an independent review of its performance in three years. This review will assess the effectiveness of the Scheme and its governance.

In light of ongoing discussions about mandatory product stewardship legislation, the ACCC reiterated that its authorisation does not replace the government's role in establishing such regulations.