Lithium-ion batteries: everyday convenience, hidden dangers
We all use technology that contains lithium-ion batteries on a daily basis without issue. But when they malfunction, the outcome can be disastrous. These compact energy units can overheat, catch fire or explode suddenly, leading to serious injuries.
For those affected, recovery can be costly and difficult. However, there are avenues for legal compensation. If you’ve been injured in a lithium battery fire, it’s important to know your legal rights – and how Arnold Thomas & Becker can help you pursue them.
Where are lithium-ion batteries found?
Lithium batteries are in many of our everyday items, including:
- Phones
- Laptops and tablets
- Power tools
- E-scooters/E-bikes
- Power tools
- Medical devices
- Some cars (EVs)
Why are lithium-ion batteries risky?
Almost every portable electronic device relies on lithium-ion technology because it stores large amounts of power in a small package. That same advantage creates danger: if the battery fails, it usually does so violently.
In March 2025, Fire Rescue Victoria reported that the batteries had caused more than one fire per day in Melbourne. They expressed particular concern about poor quality imported products bought online and DIY modifications to devices using the batteries.
In October 2023, the ACCC released an alarming report that found that:
- There are an increasing number of house fires, serious injuries, property damage, burns, chemical exposure, and smoke inhalation caused by lithium ion battery fires;
- The chemical composition of lithium ion batteries make these fires very destructive, difficult to extinguish and creates a risk that they may spontaneously reignite;
- Fires have often been caused by batteries in phones, tablets, laptops and are increasingly being caused by batteries in e-scooters, residential energy storage batteries, and power tools;
- A number of people have been burned by or suffered smoke inhalation from fires or explosions caused by power packs, vapes, power tools, mobile phones, smart watches; and
- It is likely that the number of fires is significantly underreported, and there is no single source that captures data about lithium ion battery incidents in Australia. The intensity of the fires mean the battery itself is often destroyed, so it is hard to tell the cause of the fire leading to further underreporting;
- Consumers are largely unaware of the safety risks posed by lithium ion batteries.
Fire services, regulators and insurers have closely monitored the rising numbers of lithium ion battery fires, with Fire and Rescue NSW calling this the “fastest-growing fire risk” in the state.
The human and financial toll
When a lithium battery fails, the impact is often immediate:
- Burn injuries
- Explosions that propel shrapnel
- Smoke inhalation from toxic fumes causing lung damage
- Psychological harm
The property damage can also be immense. A single incident has the potential to destroy homes, cars and businesses.
Who may be held liable?
Under Australian Consumer Law, companies that design, produce or sell lithium-ion batteries must ensure their safety. When a defect causes harm, these companies or manufacturers can be held responsible.
Be mindful that time limits apply – your claim must be raised within three years from the injury date.
What compensation can cover
Victims of lithium battery fires may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering, recognising both physical and psychological impacts
- Lost earnings
- Property damage to homes, vehicles or personal possessions
- Care costs, where family or friends provide necessary support
- Exemplary or aggravated damages, in serious cases, to punish wrongdoing
If you have been injured, ensure you seek medical treatment first and foremost. Be sure also to keep all physical evidence including the device and battery, and photograph the scene as well as your injuries.
We can help you – No Win No Fee
Arnold Thomas & Becker operates on a No Win, No Fee basis. That means you won’t pay legal fees unless your case is successful – removing the financial burden while you focus on recovery.
Arnold Thomas & Becker lawyer Cameron Doig says:
“Australia is only just beginning to grapple with the scale of the consumer safety risk posed by lithium ion battery fires. The ACCC has said that there are probably far more incidents of injury and property damage than we are aware of.”
“We encourage anybody who has suffered property damage or injury as the result of a lithium ion battery fire to come forward.”
“Consumers may be entitled to compensation for injuries or property damage caused by fires or explosions from batteries in vapes, power tools, mobile phones, smart watches, e-scooters, e-bikes, power tools, or solar energy home batteries.”
Contact us today
Arnold Thomas & Becker is calling for anyone across Australia who has suffered an injury or had property damaged by a fire caused by any products containing a lithium-ion battery to contact us. We can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
To understand your rights and entitlements, call us today on 1300 333 300 or fill out the form below.