Is International parcel allowed with 2 dry batteries within instrument?

[sholland]

I have a vintage ex gpo engineer's test meter to post to Australia. Contained within the screwed on cover are 2 dry batteries, that work but are several years old. 1 is ordinary AA the other is a special 15V one that is approx 1/2 the size of an AA. I could remove the AA as they are easily obtainable, but the 15V one is not easily obtainable.
Is this allowed in International mail if I declare it as containing 2 batteries?
I can only see the more modern hazardous types listed as restricted or prohibited, not the older "ordinary" dry batteries.
Thank you,
sholland

[TrueBlueTerrier]

I think the batteries are ok, however under prohibited items fro Australia they list http://www.royalmail.com/australia" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof

so I would double check with Aussie Customs just to make doubly sure. you can do this on https://www.border.gov.au/about/contact" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Snaggletooth]

Used batteries are a minefield. For instance, Royal Mail ban used alkaline metal batteries:

http://www.royalmail.com/sites/default/ ... -Items.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

So I looked up alkaline metal batteries and found that that this covers perfectly ordinary batteries and that they are classed as dry batteries:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alkaline_battery" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

You need to be really sure of the chemistry of the battery you are sending, and then check with Royal Mail. Personally, I would refer you to the bottom of the first column of the RM leaflet I have linked to, and note that for non-lithium batteries you should send brand new batteries in original retail packaging, but not send used batteries or leave the batteries in the equipment. Between those two extremes are lots of different ways of doing it but they all run the risk of your whole package being destroyed.

[sholland]

Thank you TBT, you are always helpful.
I have submitted an online query to Australia import authority.
Kind regards,
sholland

[sholland]

Thanks also snaggletooth. Only just saw your information.
Batteries can be removed and disposed of, but depends if a used, collectable "measuring instrument" that is inaccurate, comes under such import list.
Will wait and see.
Thanks again, both of you
sholland