Exploding lithium-ion batteries among factors behind rise in Melbourne fires

Melbourne firefighters fear a rise in the irresponsible use of lithium batteries could turn deadly after a major spike in fires last year.

Exploding lithium batteries — which are used in e-scooters — are responsible for more than one blaze every day in Melbourne, with fears this trend could see Victorians face a similar tragic fate to other states.

Data released in the latest Fire Rescue Victoria annual report revealed crews attended 2705 more fires in 2023/24 than the previous year, with blazes sparked by lithium-ion batteries among the reasons behind this 24 per cent increase.

In NSW fire brigades have already responded to 52 lithium battery-related fires in 2025, with international student Haidar Ali tragically dying in his apartment after he was trapped by a fire started by lithium battery.

Among FRV’s key concerns included people buying “poorer quality” batteries or modifying lithium battery systems to store more energy, increasing the fire risk.

FRV deputy commissioner of community safety Joshua Fischer said fire crews had noticed a rise in fires caused by cheaper lithium batteries.

“What we’re seeing is certainly a rise in lithium-ion related fires relating to poorer quality made products whether they be imported products, there are many online stores that offer cheaper alternative products compared to more reputable suppliers,” he said.

“Other instances where modifications are made to devices and someone has made modifications to the battery system so that it carries or holds additional energy and that’s where we see common faults.”

Fire crews on site at the factory fire at Chesterville Rd, Cheltenham. Picture: Ian Currie

Last year a Mildura couple on holiday lost their home to a blaze caused by an e-bike battery.

In January more than 70 firefighters from 25 crews battled a blaze at a Cheltenham factory sparked by lithium batteries for more than six hours.

Batteries overcharging and people using non-complaint charging equipment were some of the common causes behind these fires — particularly in residential areas and high rise apartment buildings.

“Lithium ion batteries, when they fail or have been misused or damaged, can give rise to sudden explosions and toxic fires that are immense and dangerous,” the FRV report said.

“They have the potential to cause intense jet-like flames and explosions as the battery enters thermal runaway.”

Assistant chief fire officer Jamie Hansen said the brigade wanted to be “proactive” in ensuring the batteries were used responsibly.

“We certainly support the transition to net-zero emissions, and we will continue to provide expert advice to assist industry and regulators achieve a safe and effective product that ensures the safety of our firefighters and community,” he said.

Mr Fischer said the incorrect disposal of lithium battery waste also posed a significant risk of fires in transport vehicles and waste facilities.

“People looking to dispose of an old or damage lithium-ion battery should contact their local council waste transfer facilities,” he said.

“We have seen instances here in Victoria where garbage trucks have had to empty their load in the street to prevent further damage to the truck due to a lithium-ion battery being disposed in general household waste.”

Last year FRV recorded an 11 per cent increase in structure fires and a 33 per cent rise in non-structure fires.