🔥 What happened
A major fire broke out on April 12 at the Li-ion Energy battery recycling facility in Maddington, containing up to 100 tonnes of lithium-ion, lithium metal, and lead-acid batteries.
It has become Western Australia’s largest battery fire on record.
⚠️ Current public warning
Residents are urged to stay indoors or avoid the facility because burnt battery material can react with water, and rain is forecast.
DFES says some burnt battery product is difficult to access due to the collapsed structure.
Nine containers of burnt material have been removed and covered with sand to prevent off‑gassing.
🧪 Hazard management
Hazardous materials have been contained and are expected to be moved offsite.
Air quality monitoring is ongoing within the HAZMAT warning area.
Swab samples are being analysed by ChemCentre for the Department of Health.
Six nearby public schools were cleaned as a precaution.
📊 Why this incident matters
Lithium battery fires are increasing globally, especially in recycling and waste facilities.
The complexity comes from multiple battery chemistries being present, making firefighting tactics harder.
DFES and national agencies will review the incident to improve future responses.
Experts expect this event to influence future regulations and standards for battery waste processing.
🌏 Wider context
Another recycling facility fire occurred in Brisbane just four days later.
EV FireSafe notes that battery processing is a growing global challenge.