Scrap Metal for Cash: What You Can Recycle in Victoria and How Much It’s Worth
If you’ve got unwanted metal lying around—old appliances, copper wiring, or even car parts—you might be sitting on a pile of cash without even knowing it. In Victoria, scrap metal recycling is not only environmentally responsible, it’s also financially rewarding. Whether you’re cleaning out your garage or managing a renovation project, recycling scrap metal for cash can be a smart way to make money while helping the planet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you can recycle, how much it’s worth, and how to get started in Victoria.
Why Recycle Scrap Metal?
Before diving into what’s worth money, let’s understand why recycling metal matters:
✅ Environmental Benefits: Recycling metal uses significantly less energy than mining and refining new materials.
✅ Waste Reduction: Keeps bulky items out of landfills and reduces pollution.
✅ Economic Value: Metal recycling supports local jobs and contributes to Victoria’s circular economy.
✅ Quick Cash: Some metals can be surprisingly valuable, especially copper and aluminium.
What Scrap Metals Can You Recycle for Cash?
In Victoria, scrap yards and metal recycling centres accept a wide variety of materials. Here’s a breakdown of high-value scrap metals and what they typically come from:
1. Copper
Copper is one of the most sought-after scrap metals. You’ll find it in:
Electrical wiring
Plumbing pipes
Air conditioning units
Motors and transformers
Scrap Value (April 2025):
🔹 $7.00–$9.00 per kg for clean copper
🔹 $4.50–$6.00 per kg for mixed or insulated copper
2. Aluminium
Lightweight but valuable, aluminium is found in:
Window frames
Cans and tins
Car rims and parts
Cookware
Scrap Value:
🔹 $1.50–$2.00 per kg for clean aluminium
🔹 $1.00–$1.30 per kg for mixed or contaminated aluminium
3. Brass
A heavy, yellowish metal found in:
Taps and fittings
Door handles
Decorative hardware
Scrap Value:
🔹 $4.50–$6.00 per kg
What Can’t You Recycle (or Sell for Cash)?
While most metal is recyclable, some items are restricted due to safety or environmental regulations in Victoria:
Gas bottles and pressurised containers
Paint cans (with residue)
Hazardous waste
Electronics with lithium batteries (unless processed separately)
Items without proof of ownership (e.g., high-value copper cables)
Always check with your local scrap metal dealer before bringing in these items.
How Much Money Can You Make?
Here are a few examples of how scrap adds up:
💰 10 kg of copper wiring = $70–$90
💰 50 kg of aluminium window frames = $75–$100
💰 100 kg of mixed steel from appliances = $20–$40
💰 Car battery (lead content) = $10–$15
These numbers might not seem huge, but if you’re cleaning out a shed, doing renos, or managing a workshop, the total return can be hundreds of dollars per load
Where to Take Scrap Metal in Victoria
Most major cities and regional towns have scrap yards or metal recyclers:
Melbourne: Numerous options including Laverton, Dandenong, and Campbellfield
Geelong: Multiple yards accepting all metals
Ballarat & Bendigo: Regional hubs with competitive prices
Gippsland & Shepparton: Local services and mobile pickup in some areas
Many dealers also offer bin hire or pickup services for large volumes or commercial clients.
Tips for Maximizing Your Return
Strip wires of insulation (if you have time) – you’ll get higher prices.
Avoid mixing metals – separate for cleaner pricing.
Call ahead to check the day’s prices – they can fluctuate weekly.
Use a magnet – non-ferrous metals (non-magnetic) are usually more valuable.
Save in bulk – selling larger loads saves time and increases value per trip.
Final Thoughts
Turning scrap metal into cash is a win-win in Victoria: you clean up your space, earn extra income, and support sustainable recycling. Whether it’s a side hustle or a one-off cleanup, knowing what’s recyclable and how much it’s worth can turn “junk” into serious value.
So next time you’re about to toss out that old heater or pile of copper wire—pause. You could be recycling your way to a payday.