The recycling service is free only when you purchase a Dell Dimension desktop or Inspiron notebook and a courier will take away an old computer from any vendor when delivering the new one.

Dell started offering a national, recycling service in December 2004, which cost the consumer A$36 (US$27) per item. Since then, Dell estimates it has recycled some 60 tons of computer equipment, including unwanted desktops, notebooks, handhelds and printers from Dell and other vendors.

Through the service, Dell will pay money for certain computers less than three years old that are able to be resold. For example, Dell will pay A$110 for a desktop with a 1.3Ghz Intel Pentium IV CPU, 256MB memory, 30Gb hard disk drive, CD drive and 17in display.

Computers that can not be re-sold and are older than three years are sent to government-approved recycling facilities, which claim to prevent 90 percent of the product going to landfill.

Any scrap material to be exported for "more efficient disposal" is processed to remove hazardous and toxic material to ensure compliance with government and international conventions.