How to Get Rid of Old Appliances in Sydney — Responsible Disposal Guide

When you replace an old fridge, washing machine, or dryer, what do you do with the old one? Leaving large appliances on the kerb or dumping them is illegal in NSW and harmful to the environment. Here are your responsible options.

1. Use Our Old Appliance Removal Service

The easiest option: when you buy a new (or used) appliance from Oceania Appliances, we can remove your old one at the same time. Ask about this when placing your order. We'll take it away when we deliver your replacement, with minimal fuss.

2. Book a Council Bulk Waste Collection

All Sydney councils offer a bulk household waste or large item collection service. The specifics vary by council:

• Some councils have a fixed annual collection date
• Others allow you to book on demand (often 2–6 times per year)
• Some charge a small fee for certain items

Check your council's website for booking details. Items must be placed on the kerb on the designated day.

3. MRI (Mobile Resource Industry) Appliance Drop-Off

Some councils have arrangements with MRI-accredited recyclers for safe handling of old fridges, freezers, and air conditioners which contain refrigerant gases. These are hazardous and require licensed handling.

The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) has information on certified refrigerant disposal services at arc.com.au.

4. E-waste Drop-Off Points

Electronic components of appliances (motors, circuit boards, wiring) are e-waste. Many NSW councils and retailers have e-waste drop-off points. Officeworks, for example, accepts small electrical items for recycling.

NSW's Resource Recovery Framework designates certain appliances as e-waste, so check nsw.gov.au/topics/ewaste for current approved drop-off options near you.

5. Donate or Sell Working Appliances

If your old appliance still works, don't send it to landfill:

• Donate: St Vincent de Paul, Salvos Stores, and similar charities accept working appliances
• Sell: Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are good for a working older appliance
• Offer for free: Free items on Gumtree or Facebook often go within hours

6. Scrap Metal Dealers

Fridges and washing machines contain valuable metals (copper, aluminium, steel). Scrap metal dealers will often collect large appliances for free or even pay a small amount. Search for 'scrap metal Sydney' to find dealers near you.

What NOT to Do

• Do not place on the kerb randomly: This is illegal dumping in NSW and attracts fines
• Do not puncture or damage a fridge or freezer: Refrigerant gas is a greenhouse gas and must be recovered by a licensed technician
• Do not place refrigerant appliances with general waste: Councils will not collect fridges in standard bulk waste collections in many areas without prior arrangement

Buying a Replacement?

Oceania Appliances makes replacing old appliances easy. We stock quality used fridges, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers from $150, with free Sydney delivery and 3–6 month warranty. We'll even take away your old appliance at the same time.

Call 0481 243 211 or browse our range online. Showroom at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park — open 7 days, 10am to 8pm.