Parents are being warned about the risk of injury to small children from swallowing button or coin-sized batteries, said Assistant Treasurer, David Bradbury.
The small batteries are found in many modern electronic devices and toys and are often shaped like a coin.
A new campaign, The Battery Controlled, was launched today by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Kidsafe and battery producer Energizer and will help to make parents aware of the potential hazards.
"If swallowed, button or coin-sized batteries can pose a serious risk of injury or even death," said Mr Bradbury. "The small batteries can become stuck in a child's throat and burn through the oesophagus in as little as two hours."
"As part of the new campaign, the ACCC will be working with suppliers on better, more child-safe designs of battery compartments and liaising with health professionals about reducing the risks of misdiagnosis and delays in treatment for children who have swallowed button batteries.
"This is a new and severe risk to young children. Parents should try and keep devices using button batteries out of reach of children if the battery compartments can't be secured, and loose batteries should always be locked away.
"If your child swallows one of these batteries, take them to your nearest emergency department immediately and call the Poisons Information Centre on 131 126 for further treatment information."
For more information about the campaign, visit www.TheBatteryControlled.com.au.