Sharps disposal by state and territory

Sharps disposal arrangements differ by state, council and receiving service. Start with your state below, then confirm the site accepts your sealed household container before travelling.

Plan disposal before the container is full. Keep used sharps in an appropriate container, follow its fill line and closure instructions, and keep it away from children. A pharmacy selling syringes does not automatically accept used sharps.

Choose your state or territory

• Sharps disposal in New South Wales
• Sharps disposal in Victoria
• Sharps disposal in Queensland
• Sharps disposal in Western Australia
• Sharps disposal in South Australia
• Sharps disposal in Tasmania
• Sharps disposal in Australian Capital Territory
• Sharps disposal in Northern Territory

Questions for the receiving service

Ask about household medical sharps, container type and size, fees, opening times and where to hand it over. Commercial clinical waste may need a separate collection service.

Found a discarded needle?

Keep others away and contact the council or the local service listed in your state guidance. This directory does not teach collection or replace professional advice.

Source: National Blood Authority: sharps disposal, checked 17 October 2026.