Scrap metal prices refer to the amount recycling businesses pay for recyclable metals, usually calculated per kilogram or per tonne. The price you receive depends on the type and grade of metal you are selling.
Indicative Melbourne listings currently show ranges such as:
| Metal | Indicative Price Range (AUD/kg) |
|---|---|
| Clean copper | $10–$13 |
| Copper wire/cable | $2–$8 |
| Brass | $3.50–$6.50 |
| Aluminium | $0.90–$3.00 |
| Stainless steel | $1–$2 |
| Lead | Around $1.20–$2.50 |
| Electric motors | Around $0.60–$2.00 |
These are indicative market listings rather than guaranteed offers. Actual prices can vary by recycler, quantity, grade, cleanliness and market conditions.
Why Do Scrap Metal Prices Change?
Several factors influence scrap metal prices in Melbourne.
1. Global Metal Markets
Copper, aluminium and other industrial metals are traded internationally. Changes in global supply and demand can therefore affect local scrap prices.
Copper, in particular, has experienced strong market movements in 2026. Recent reports have linked higher copper prices to demand from power infrastructure, AI-related infrastructure investment and supply constraints.
2. Type of Metal
Different metals have different values. Non-ferrous metals such as copper, brass and aluminium generally attract higher prices than common ferrous materials such as steel and iron.
3. Metal Purity
Clean, sorted metal is usually worth more than contaminated or mixed material. For example, clean copper can command considerably more than copper containing insulation, coatings or other materials.
4. Quantity
If you have a large commercial or industrial quantity, the recycler may provide a different rate than for a small household load. It is worthwhile asking for a current quote before transporting a large quantity.
5. Processing Costs
Recyclers may need to sort, strip, clean or process scrap before it can be sold to manufacturers. Materials requiring less processing can therefore receive better rates.
Which Scrap Metals Are Most Valuable?
Copper
Copper is one of the most valuable commonly recycled scrap metals. Electrical cable, plumbing pipes, copper sheets and industrial components can all contain recoverable copper.
Current Melbourne listings show clean copper prices reaching approximately $10–$13 per kg, although the exact amount depends on the grade and buyer.
Brass
Brass is commonly found in taps, valves, fittings, plumbing components and industrial equipment. Clean brass generally attracts a better price than contaminated or mixed brass.
Aluminium
Aluminium is lightweight and widely available in window frames, vehicle components, sheets, cans and other products. Its price is lower than copper but it can still provide useful returns when collected in large quantities.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is commonly generated by construction, manufacturing, kitchens and commercial businesses. The grade and nickel content can influence its value.
Steel and Iron
Steel and iron are among the most common scrap metals. Individual prices are generally lower, but their large volumes make them important for commercial recycling operations.
How to Get a Better Scrap Metal Price
If you want to maximise the value of your scrap, consider these steps:
Separate different metals: Keep copper, brass, aluminium, stainless steel and steel in separate piles.
Remove obvious contamination: Where practical and safe, separate non-metal materials from recyclable metal.
Keep high-value metals clean: Clean copper and brass can be worth considerably more than contaminated grades.
Compare local buyers: Prices can differ between Melbourne recyclers, so obtaining more than one quote can be worthwhile.
Ask about current prices: Scrap prices can change, so don’t rely on an old price list.
Consider the quantity: Larger loads may be more attractive to commercial recyclers.
Where Can You Sell Scrap Metal in Melbourne?
Melbourne has numerous scrap-metal dealers and recycling facilities serving households, tradespeople and businesses. Examples include:
- Metro Copper Recycling – Scrap Copper Melbourne, Copper Wire, Aluminum Recycling, Scrap Brass Pickup, Copper Scrap Price
- Scrappy’s Metal Recycling Pty Ltd
- Afresh Metals
- Chilcorp Metal Recycling
- Metal & Battery Recycling
When choosing a recycler, consider the current buying rate, accepted materials, weighing procedures, pickup options and payment terms.
Scrap Metal Recycling Is Good for Melbourne
Selling scrap metal is not only a way to recover money from unwanted materials. Recycling also keeps valuable resources in circulation and reduces the amount of material sent to landfill.
Recycling metals allows materials such as copper, aluminium and steel to be processed and reused in manufacturing. This reduces the need to rely entirely on newly extracted raw materials.