Illegal and Restricted Items Index

Important: This page is a general guide only. It does not replace legal advice or council regulations. Laws and rules can change. Always check current requirements for Boroondara and the Victorian Government if you’re unsure.

Boroondara Hard Rubbish Rehome (BHRR) exists to help people safely rehome useful, preloved items. Some things, however, cannot be rehomed through BHRR because of legal requirements, safety risks, Facebook rules, or BHRR’s own community standards.

If you are ever unsure about whether an item is allowed, please check this guide and, if needed, ask a BHRR admin before posting.

1. Items that are always prohibited

The following items must not be offered or requested through BHRR. Posts including these items may be declined or removed.

1.1 Alcohol, tobacco and vaping products

• Any alcoholic drinks (full or empty containers that still contain alcohol)

• Tobacco products (including loose tobacco, cigarettes, cigars, rolling papers used with tobacco)

• Nicotine products, including e‑cigarettes and vapes

These items are restricted under law and/or platform rules, and are not suitable for rehoming through BHRR.

1.2 Medication and supplements

• Prescription medicines

• Over‑the‑counter medicines (for example, pain relief, cold and flu tablets)

• Herbal or “natural” remedies

• Vitamins and supplements

• Medication for animals (for example, worming tablets, flea treatments)

Medication and supplements need to be managed through pharmacies, health professionals, or official recycling schemes. They must not be rehomed between members.

1.3 Live animals

• Any live animal, including pets, livestock, reptiles, birds or fish

Rehoming animals involves specific legal, welfare and biosecurity requirements. Please use dedicated rescue organisations, shelters or breed‑specific groups instead.

1.4 Illegal or legally restricted items

Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Controlled or illicit drugs and related equipment

• Firearms, parts, ammunition or imitation weapons

• Knives designed as weapons (for example, flick knives) and other restricted weapons

• Stolen goods or items you are not legally allowed to give away

If you are not sure whether something is restricted or controlled, please do not list it. Check with the relevant government authority or contact BHRR for guidance.

1.5 Gas bottles and similar pressurised containers

• BBQ gas bottles

• Camping gas canisters

• Other large pressurised cylinders

These items require specialised inspection, refilling and disposal for safety reasons. Please follow council or supplier guidance instead of rehoming them through BHRR.

1.6 Unsafe or unfit‑for‑purpose items

Any item that is clearly unsafe, broken in a way that affects safety, or no longer fit for its intended purpose must not be rehomed. Examples include:

• Damaged child car seats or helmets

• Electrical items with exposed wiring or signs of burning

• Baby equipment that no longer meets safety standards

• Items that have been recalled by the manufacturer

If you are unsure whether something is safe, err on the side of caution and do not list it.

2. Items that may be restricted or require extra care

Some items are not automatically banned, but BHRR admins may decline or remove posts if there are safety, legal or community‑standards concerns.

2.1 Personal care items

Items that have been opened or partly used (for example, cosmetics, skincare, hair products) can raise hygiene concerns. As a general rule, only unopened, in‑date personal care items in good condition may be considered.

2.2 Food and drinks

To manage health and safety risks, BHRR generally does not support rehoming opened or homemade food. Non‑perishable, sealed, in‑date food may be better directed to local food relief or charity organisations.

2.3 Large, heavy or complex items

Some bulky or complex items (for example, very heavy furniture, gym equipment or large appliances) may require safe lifting, installation or electrical checks. Posts may be moderated if there are concerns about safety or practicality.

3. Facebook and community standards

Because BHRR operates primarily via Facebook, all posts must comply with:

• Facebook’s Community Standards and Commerce Policies, and

• BHRR’s own group rules and guidelines.

Even if something is not specifically listed above, admins may still remove or decline posts that:

• appear to break the law,

• risk harm to people, property or animals,

• conflict with council or platform policies, or

• undermine the inclusive, respectful nature of the group.

4. What to do with prohibited items

If you have an item that cannot be rehomed through BHRR, you still have options:

• Check your local council hard rubbish, recycling and safe‑disposal guides.

• Ask your pharmacy how to safely dispose of unwanted medication.

• Contact the original retailer or manufacturer about recalls or take‑back programs.

• For dangerous or controlled items, follow advice from the relevant government authority.

Where possible, choose the option that is safest for people and best for the environment.

5. When in doubt, please ask

If you are unsure whether a particular item is allowed:

1. Check this Illegal and Restricted Items Index.

2. Review the BHRR group rules.

3. Contact a BHRR admin or moderator with a brief description of the item.

We’re happy to help you work out the safest and most appropriate path for your preloved items.