The scrap metal aluminium price is one of the most important topics for anyone selling recyclable metal, especially because aluminium is widely used in cans, windows, vehicle parts, and construction materials. Many sellers are unsure how much aluminium is worth, what affects its price, and whether they are getting a fair deal from scrap yards or recyclers.
In this guide, you’ll learn current aluminium scrap prices in Australia, different aluminium types, what impacts pricing, and how to maximise your payout when selling. Whether you’re cleaning up household waste or handling bulk industrial scrap, this breakdown will help you sell smarter and earn more.
What Is the Scrap Price for Aluminium in Australia?
Aluminium scrap is priced per kilogram and varies depending on purity, condition, and market demand. It is less valuable than copper but still one of the most commonly recycled and traded metals.
Average aluminium scrap prices (2026)
| Aluminium Type | Condition | Price Range (AUD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Clean aluminium | No paint or contamination | $2.00 – $3.50 |
| Mixed aluminium | Light paint or residue | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| Aluminium cans | Compressed clean cans | $1.20 – $2.00 |
| Extruded aluminium | Window frames, profiles | $2.00 – $3.00 |
| Cast aluminium | Engine parts, machinery | $1.80 – $2.80 |
Prices fluctuate daily based on global aluminium trading markets.
Why Aluminium Scrap Has Value
Aluminium is highly recyclable and widely used across industries.
Key reasons for demand
- Lightweight but strong material
- Used in construction, transport, and packaging
- Recycling saves up to 95% energy compared to new production
- High global demand from manufacturing sectors
Because of this, aluminium maintains steady scrap value year-round.
Types of Aluminium Scrap and Their Prices
Understanding aluminium grades helps you avoid underpricing.
Clean aluminium (highest value)
- Window frames without paint
- Clean sheet aluminium
- Industrial offcuts
Mixed aluminium
- Lightly painted or coated aluminium
- Slightly contaminated material
Aluminium cans
- Soft drink and food cans
- Must be compressed and cleaned for better value
Cast aluminium
- Car parts and machinery components
- Slightly lower purity but still valuable
Factors Affecting Scrap Aluminium Price
Global market demand
Aluminium is traded internationally, so prices move with global supply and demand.
Purity level
Clean aluminium always earns higher rates than mixed or coated scrap.
Quantity sold
Bulk loads usually get better per-kg pricing.
Processing requirements
Dirty or mixed aluminium costs more to process, reducing value.
Location and competition
Different scrap yards may offer different rates based on local demand.
Aluminium Scrap vs Other Metals
| Metal | Value Level | Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Very high | Strong |
| Brass | High | Moderate |
| Aluminium | Medium | Very high volume |
| Steel | Low | Very high volume |
How to Get the Best Scrap Aluminium Price
Separate aluminium types
Keep clean, cast, and mixed aluminium separate.
Remove contaminants
Plastic, steel screws, and paint reduce value.
Compress cans
Baled aluminium cans are more valuable than loose ones.
Compare scrap yards
Prices vary across recyclers, so always check multiple offers.
Sell in bulk
Larger quantities often receive better rates.
Common Uses of Recycled Aluminium
Recycled aluminium is used in:
- Vehicle manufacturing
- Beverage cans
- Construction materials
- Aircraft parts
- Electrical components
This wide usage keeps demand stable in recycling markets.
FAQs
What is the current scrap metal aluminium price in Australia?
Aluminium scrap typically ranges from $1.20/kg to $3.50/kg depending on type, cleanliness, and market demand. Clean aluminium and extrusions fetch higher prices than mixed or coated materials.
Why is aluminium scrap cheaper than copper?
Aluminium is more abundant and easier to recycle, which lowers its value compared to copper, which is rarer and more in demand for electrical applications.
Can I sell aluminium cans for scrap?
Yes, aluminium cans can be sold, especially when cleaned and compressed. However, they usually attract lower prices than solid aluminium scrap.
What is the best aluminium type for scrap value?
Clean, unpainted aluminium such as window frames and industrial offcuts generally fetch the highest prices in the scrap market.
Conclusion
The scrap metal aluminium price in Australia remains steady and offers a reliable way to earn money from recyclable waste. While aluminium does not match copper in value, it is widely accepted and consistently in demand across recycling markets.