The Future of Car Recycling in Australia: Why It Matters and What We Can Do
Every year in Australia, around 850,000 vehicles reach the end of their life. That’s nearly a million cars no longer roadworthy - but still full of parts, materials and components that can be reused or recycled.
A recent report released by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) and Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) shines a light on the massive opportunity we have to improve how cars are recycled and how much more we can recover.
At Central Motor Wreckers, we’re already playing a role in that shift and here’s why it matters.
The State of Car Recycling in Australia
According to the report: Australia generates 1.36 million tonnes of vehicle waste every year. Around 70% of that is currently recycled but that still leaves over 400,000 tonnes of waste (much of it recoverable).
Many materials - especially plastics, wiring and electronic components, are not being recycled at the level they could be.
One key issue is the lack of a nationally coordinated recycling scheme, something that other countries, like the UK and EU, already have in place.
What Does This Mean for Recycled Auto Parts?
The report highlights a major win: vehicle dismantlers and wreckers are critical to improving recovery rates. That’s because we’re the ones removing, testing and reselling high-value parts before a vehicle is shredded or scrapped.
By choosing to use recycled car parts, you're:
Extending the lifespan of usable components
Keeping materials out of landfill
Reducing the need to manufacture new parts
Supporting local auto businesses like ours here in Ballarat.
A Call for Better Systems and How We’re Already Helping
The AAAA and MTAA are calling for:
A national vehicle recycling scheme
Clearer standards for end-of-life vehicles
More support for businesses that dismantle and recycle responsibly.
At Central Motor Wreckers, we already follow best practices for:
Safe dismantling and storage
Careful testing and part matching
Supplying parts with warranty and traceability.
We’re proud to do our part and we welcome the idea of a more unified system to raise the bar across the industry.
What Can You Do?
If you're repairing, restoring or maintaining a car, you can help by:
Asking for recycled or second-hand parts where possible
Choosing local wreckers who properly test and back their parts with strong warranties
Supporting businesses that focus on sustainable practices.
Here at Central Motor Wreckers we are proud to be part of the solution. We’re not just here to sell you a part. We’re here to help build a more sustainable future for car ownership in Victoria.
Looking for a part or Want to learn more about how we recycle?
📞 Get in touch or visit us in Ballarat. We’re here to help. 🔗 centralmotorwreckers.com.au
Every recycled part is one step closer to a cleaner, smarter future. Thanks for choosing local. Thanks for choosing sustainable.
