Finding a “scrap yard near you” in Australia in 2026 has become a streamlined process, thanks to the country’s push toward a circular economy. Whether you’re a tradesperson with leftover copper piping or a homeowner clearing out a garage, the local scrap yard has evolved into a high-tech resource recovery center.
Here is what you need to know about finding and using scrap yards across Australia today.
1. Major Yards and Networks by State
If you are looking for a reputable yard, several major players operate national or large regional networks with multiple drop-off points.
2. What Can You “Scrap” Today?
In 2026, yards have expanded their “accepted” lists to include modern e-waste and specialized alloys.
High-Value (Non-Ferrous)
- Copper: Bright & shiny wire, PVC-insulated cables, and plumbing tubes.
- Aluminum: Extrusions (window frames), cast aluminum, and “clean” beverage cans.
- Brass: Marine fittings, taps, and ornaments.
- Batteries: Lead-acid car batteries are still staples, but many yards now have specialized fire-safe bins for lithium-ion (e-scooter/tool) batteries.
Bulk (Ferrous)
- Steel/Iron: Roofing sheets, white goods (fridges/washers), fencing, and car bodies. Most yards offer free drop-off for light steel and pay for heavy industrial loads.
3. The “Cash for Scrap” Legal Reality
It is important to note that paying physical cash for scrap metal is illegal in several Australian states (including NSW and VIC) to combat metal theft.
- Payment Method: Most reputable yards now use OSKO/Fast Payments, meaning the money hits your bank account within seconds of the weigh-in.
- Identification: You must bring a valid Australian Driver’s License or Photo ID. Under current 2026 regulations, yards are required to keep a digital record of all transactions.
4. How to Find a Yard “Near Me”
To find the closest facility with the best rates, use these three methods:
- Direct Maps Search: Searching for “Scrap Metal Recycling [Your Suburb]” on Google Maps is the fastest way to check current opening hours (typically 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM).
- Council Apps: Many local councils (like Brisbane or Melbourne) now have apps that list “Resource Recovery Centres” where you can drop off metal for free if it’s not in commercial quantities.
- Bin Services: If you have more than 2 tonnes of material, don’t drive. Most yards like InfraBuild or SRS will deliver a skip bin to your site and collect it once full.
5. Pro Tip: The “Clean Sort” Premium
In 2026, scrap prices are heavily influenced by “purity.”
Do this: Strip the plastic coating off your copper wire and remove steel screws from aluminum frames before you arrive. “Clean” metal can fetch up to 30–50% more per kilogram than “mixed” or “dirty” loads.