NSW wants to tackle the fastest growing cause of fires by introducing new standards for lithium-ion batteries.
The batteries used in e-bikes and e-scooters caused 90 fires in the state in 2022 and 2023, so better testing and certification are needed.
For products that do not meet the new standards, companies face fines of up to $825,000 and private individuals face fines of up to $82,500.
NSW Fair Trading is also running a consumer education campaign to highlight unsafe charging practices and other causes contributing to the increase in fires.
According to Trade Minister Anoulack Chanthivong, the increase in lithium-ion battery fires is “alarming” and requires swift action from the government.
“The reality is that devices like e-bikes have become indispensable. Introducing higher standards means consumers have access to the products they want while being confident that they are safe,” he said.
“With the growing popularity of lithium-ion batteries, we cannot afford to continue to allow their use in our community to go unregulated. Inaction poses a huge risk to lives and property in NSW.”
An industry roundtable held last month will shape the rules to be set by NSW Fair Trading.
“The ongoing property damage and potential loss of life from lithium-ion battery fires exceeds any costs to industry of complying with these new standards,” said Petrina Casey, New South Wales’ acting Trade Commissioner.
“To ensure consumer safety across Australia, NSW Fair Trading will work with other jurisdictions to promote the adoption of certification requirements at a national level.”