APRAA (Auto Parts Recyclers Association of Australia) estimates that over 500,000 end-oflife vehicles (ELVs) currently enter the waste stream in Australia each year. It is estimated that by 2010 this number may exceed 750,000.

In Australia, the current recycling practises are such that the ELV passes from the last owner to an automobile dismantler either directly or via insurance companies, used car dealers or car repairers. The useful parts that have commercial value are removed to be used in thesecond hand car market. The residual vehicles, particularly older vehicles, are taken directly to the metal shredders or intermediary scrap metal merchants. The parts are removed and the ELV shredded. The non-metal residual exits the shredder as waste residue, known as shredder ‘fluff’ or ‘flock’. This fluff is mostly disposed as landfill.

At present, there is no legislation for ELVs in Australia.