1. Where to Sell Working Appliances
If your fridge, washer, or dryer is under 10 years old and in good condition, you can recoup anywhere from 20% to 50% of its original retail value.
- Facebook Marketplace & Gumtree: Still the reigning champions for local Melbourne sales. In 2026, buyers prioritize “Verified Seller” profiles. Pro Tip: Include a video of the appliance running to reduce “is this still available?” fluff and build instant trust.
- Second-Hand Dealers: Businesses like A1 Stuff (Melton) or local independent warehouses buy working stock to refurbish. This is the “low effort” route—they often handle the heavy lifting, though you’ll get a lower price than selling privately.
- Specialized Wholesalers: Companies like WA Appliance Warehouse (which operates across major hubs) often buy units less than 10 years old for their rental or refurbished fleets.
2. Trade-Ins: The “New for Old” Strategy
Major retailers like The Good Guys, Appliances Online, and e&s have expanded their trade-in programs for 2026.
- How it works: When you buy a new unit, they offer a “haul-away” service that frequently includes a credit toward your new purchase.
- The Benefit: You avoid the “Stairwell Struggle.” Professional installers take the old unit out while bringing the new one in.
3. Selling Broken Units for Scrap
If your appliance has “given up the ghost,” it still has value as scrap metal. However, Victorian law now mandates No-Cash-for-Scrap.
- The Law: Scrap yards (like Sims Metal or Scrappy’s Metal Recycling) cannot pay you in physical cash. You must provide ID, and they will pay you via EFT (Bank Transfer) or cheque.
- What it’s worth: * Fridges/Freezers: $10 – $30 (higher for commercial units).
- Washing Machines: $10 – $20 (due to high steel/copper content).
- Dishwashers/Dryers: $5 – $15.
4. Removal Services (When it’s not worth the hassle)
If the item has zero resale value and you just want it gone:
- 1800-GOT-JUNK?: Offers same-day professional removal. They navigate the stairs and corners so you don’t have to.
- WM Waste Management: A great option for Melbourne’s south and east suburbs. They specialize in “E-waste” and white goods recycling.
- Council Hard Rubbish: Most Melbourne councils (like City of Melbourne or Monash) offer 1–2 free hard waste collections per year. Ensure you book ahead, as “kerbside dumping” without a booking can lead to hefty fines in 2026.
Top Tips for a Fast Sale in Melbourne
- Clean it Thoroughly: A sparkling interior adds $50 to a fridge’s perceived value instantly.
- The “BSB” Rule: Since most dealers and scrap yards now use EFT, have your bank details ready on your phone to avoid payment delays.
- Safety First: If leaving a fridge out for a buyer or collection, remove the doors. It’s a legal safety requirement in Victoria to prevent child entrapment.
- Mention the Suburb: In your ad, state if the item is “Ground Floor” or “Requires Stairs.” Melbourne buyers with small cars need to know if they should bring a mate or a trolley.
