Australia Regulatory News

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is moving forward with reforming packaging regulations after reviewing extensive feedback from the public and ind...

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) is moving forward with reforming packaging regulations after reviewing extensive feedback from the public and industry. A recent consultation summary revealed strong support for a nationally coordinated regulatory approach to packaging and momentum is now building towards the next phase of policy development. 

The consultation received 426 responses, including widespread public support for stronger national regulation. Over 80% favoured Commonwealth oversight, and 65% supported Option 3 - an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme with mandatory requirements.  

Respondents emphasized the need for close industry consultation during the design of the scheme, reinvestment of EPR funds into the supply chain, and national consistency in recycling efforts. There was also strong backing for bans on problematic packaging materials, mandatory recycled content thresholds, eco-modulated fees, and recyclability labelling. The reform aims to reduce environmental impact and support a circular economy, with further policy development and stakeholder engagement planned. 

Sustainable Shift 

The vast majority (95%) of survey respondents supported the proposed goal of the packaging reform to reduce environmental impacts and promote a circular economy in Australia. Many called for stronger measures to avoid, reduce, and reuse packaging waste, especially plastic packaging. There was clear backing for targeting problematic materials first and banning harmful packaging materials such as carbon black, oxo-degradables, and PFAS.  

Respondents favoured eco-modulated financial incentives to encourage sustainable packaging design, along with mandatory national thresholds for recycled content. There was also strong support for compulsory recyclability labelling and for nationally consistent approaches across recycling systems. Some participants recommended expanding the scope of the reform to include broader environmental outcomes, such as reducing emissions. 

Further steps 

Following extensive public consultation, the Australian government is now moving into the next phase of packaging regulatory reform. Authorities will conduct further analysis of stakeholder feedback to guide the development of a new regulatory framework. Targeted consultations will continue to refine specific elements of the reform, and consideration will be given to the preferred model for a reformed packaging regulation system. 

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has proposed new environmental standards for industrial chemicals under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Ma...

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has proposed new environmental standards for industrial chemicals under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS). These proposals aim to regulate chemicals that pose significant or irreversible harm to the environment. If adopted, these measures will impact the manufacturing, import, export, use, and disposal of several industrial chemicals starting from 2026 and 2027.

This summary provides a detailed overview of the proposed standards for the following chemicals: decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), mercury and mercury compounds, 1,2-dibromoethane, methylcyclopentadienyl manganese Tricarbonyl (MMT), 1,2-dichloroethane, and aryl sulfonate hydrotropes.

Decabromodiphenyl Ethane (DBDPE): Strict Management Measures Proposed

Chemical Identity:

• Name: Benzene, 1,1'-(1,2-ethanediyl)bis[2,3,4,5,6-pentabromo-]

• Common name: Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE)

• CAS Numbers: 84852-53-9, 1092834-40-6

• Proposed effective date: 1 January 2027

Proposed Regulations:

• Use Prohibitions: Ban on manufacturing, import, and usage unless specifically exempted for essential applications.

• Essential Use Exemptions: Allowed for critical sectors such as aerospace, automotive, defence, electronic equipment, and building industries, with a phase-out planned by 1 July 2033.

• Trace Contamination Allowance: Permitted up to 10 mg/kg in substances or mixtures and 500 mg/kg in articles.

• Waste Management: Disposal must either destroy or irreversibly transform the chemical to prevent environmental release.

Background:
DBDPE is used as a flame retardant but is persistent and toxic to the environment. Australia’s proposed actions align with international efforts to phase out such substances.

Mercury and Mercury Compounds: Tightened Controls in Line with Minamata Convention

Chemical Identity:

• Name: Mercury and mercury compounds

• CAS Number: 7439-97-6 and related compounds

• Proposed effective date: 1 July 2026

Proposed Regulations:

• Ban on Manufacture, Import, and Use: Mercury and its compounds will be strictly prohibited except for a few essential uses.

• Permitted Essential Uses: Military, civil protection, certain measuring devices, cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs), and situations where no mercury-free alternatives exist.

• Waste Management: Mercury waste containing more than 15 mg/kg must be treated according to the Basel Convention guidelines.

• Stockpile Notification: Entities holding mercury stockpiles must report and manage them responsibly.

Background:
Australia’s regulatory action aligns with commitments under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, aiming to minimize mercury releases and protect public and environmental health.

1,2-Dibromoethane: New Handling Requirements to Minimize Environmental Risks

Chemical Identity:

• Name: Ethane, 1,2-dibromo-

• CAS Number: 106-93-4

• Proposed effective date: 1 January 2026

Key Measures:

• Primary Use: As a fuel additive in leaded aviation gasoline (AvGas), with some use as a solvent and chemical intermediate.

• Environmental Management: Must be handled according to IChEMS Minimum Standards, including risk management plans and environmentally safe storage practices.

Background:
Despite its usefulness in aviation, 1,2-dibromoethane is persistent and toxic, posing environmental and human health risks.

Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl (MMT): Fuel Additive under Scrutiny

Chemical Identity:

• Name: Manganese, tricarbonyl[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1-methyl-2,4-cyclopentadien-1-yl]-

• Common Names: MMT, Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl

• CAS Number: 12108-13-3

• Proposed effective date: 1 January 2026

Key Measures:

• Use Restriction: Limited to use as a fuel additive for anti-valve seat recession and as an octane booster.

• Management Compliance: Companies must comply with IChEMS Minimum Standards covering handling, storage, incident management, and waste disposal.

Background:
MMT is widely used to enhance fuel performance but poses risks due to the release of manganese into the environment.

1,2-Dichloroethane: New Environmental Controls Proposed

Chemical Identity:

• Name: Ethane, 1,2-dichloro-

• CAS Number: 107-06-2

• Proposed effective date: 1 January 2026

Key Measures:

• Primary Use: As a feedstock for manufacturing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and as an industrial solvent.

• Mandatory Compliance: Management through robust risk plans and environmentally safe disposal practices as per IChEMS standards.

Background:
1,2-Dichloroethane is a high-production-volume chemical with significant environmental risks, especially through its volatilization and potential to contaminate groundwater.

Aryl Sulfonate Hydrotropes: Low-Risk Chemicals, Still Under Monitoring

Chemical Identity:

• Chemical Group: Aryl sulfonate hydrotropes

• CAS Numbers: Includes a wide range such as 98-11-3, 515-42-4, and others

• Proposed effective date: 1 January 2026

Key Measures:

• Application Areas: Extensively used in domestic products including paints, personal care items, detergents, and textiles.

• Environmental Risk Level: Classified as unlikely to cause environmental harm, but still subject to IChEMS compliance for information sharing, safe handling, and responsible waste management.

Background:
These chemicals are important emulsifiers and stabilizers used across many industries, but due diligence is still necessary to prevent environmental harm from improper disposal.

What Are the IChEMS Minimum Standards?

All chemicals addressed by the proposed decisions must comply with the IChEMS Minimum Standards, which include:

• Information and Awareness: Inform the supply chain about environmental risks.

• Risk Management Planning: Identify, evaluate, and control environmental risks.

• Harm Minimization Controls: Prioritize elimination or reduction of chemical hazards.

• Environmentally Safe Storage: Ensure secure and compliant chemical storage.

• Effective Incident Response: Prepare for and manage chemical spills and accidents.

• Environmentally Responsible Waste Management: Apply the waste hierarchy principles, ensuring proper recycling, treatment, or disposal.

Conclusion

Australia is taking significant steps to tighten the management of industrial chemicals through the IChEMS framework. By aligning domestic regulations with international conventions such as the Minamata Convention and the Basel Convention, the country aims to enhance environmental safety and sustainability. Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and of the affected chemicals should  start preparations now to ensure full compliance when the new standards enter into force.

The National Transport Commission (NTC) of Australia has announced key amendments to the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code. These changes introduce clearer definitions and improved segregation rul...

The National Transport Commission (NTC) of Australia has announced key amendments to the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code. These changes introduce clearer definitions and improved segregation rules for incompatible dangerous goods. These changes aim to enhance workplace safety, reduce transport-related risks, and ensure regulatory clarity. 

Background on the ADG Code Revision 

A draft version of the revised ADG Code was released for public consultation in October 2024. In response to stakeholder feedback, the NTC held webinars, most recently on 12 March 2025, to address concerns and clarify the proposed changes. The ADG Code establishes national requirements for the classification, labelling, and handling of hazardous substances by road and rail in Australia. 

Key Updates from the draft 

1. Incompatible Dangerous Goods 

• Segregation provisions split:  Separate rules for packages and bulk tanks. 

• Revised chemical compatibility table. 

• Clarification on acids and alkalies. 

• New chemical groupings table, with a particular emphasis on strong acids. 

2. Definition of a "Dangerous Situation" 

• Existing Definition Maintained: Due to stakeholder concerns, the current definition remains unchanged: "A situation causing or likely to cause imminent risk of death or injury to a person, or harm to the environment or to property." 

• Enhanced Guidance Added: Additional examples and context have been provided to help users recognize reportable incidents and improve understanding of serious risks. 

Obligations for Stakeholders 

Stakeholders should: 

• Review and apply the revised provisions in the updated ADG Code, particularly those regarding segregation rules and chemical classifications.  

• Update internal policies and ensure that staff are trained on the new definitions and compatibility groupings.  

• Incorporate the clarified definition of a “dangerous situation” should into incident reporting processes to enhance accuracy and consistency.  

Additionally, stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged in the consultation process by attending the upcoming NTC webinar on 2 April for further updates and discussion. 

The Australian government has updated its Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS), listing new high-risk industrial chemicals for review. The Department of Climate Change, Ener...

The Australian government has updated its Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS), listing new high-risk industrial chemicals for review. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has prioritized chemicals under the 2024-2027 IChEMS Scheduling Strategy, focusing on substances with significant environmental risks.

This framework categorizes chemicals into seven risk-based schedules, with Schedules 6 and 7 covering substances of highest concern due to their potential for irreversible harm.

IChEMS Schedules and Minimum Standards

Industrial chemicals are categorized from Schedule 1 (lowest risk) to Schedule 7 (highest risk) to ensure proper management, use, and disposal. The standard applies:

• Stricter controls on higher-risk chemicals.

• Baseline environmental safety requirements through IChEMS Minimum Standards.

• Prohibitions and restrictions where necessary.

2024-2027 IChEMS Scheduling Strategy

The IChEMS Scheduling Strategy outlines long-term regulatory priorities for the management of industrial chemicals to ensure that their classification and control are consistent with environmental protection goals. As part of this strategy, the current work plan (2024-2025) focuses on specific high-priority chemicals that are expected to undergo assessment.

Chemicals under Review

Known and Emerging Chemicals of Concern

• Decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) (CAS RN: 84852-53-9)

Internationally Recognized Chemicals of Concern

• Minamata Convention: Mercury metal and industrial mercury compounds (CAS RN: 7439-97-6, 10112-91-1, etc.).

• Rotterdam Convention: Tetraethyl lead (CAS RN: 78-00-2), 1,2-dichloroethane (CAS RN: 107-06-2), and Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (CAS RN: 126-72-7).

• Stockholm Convention: Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (C9-C21), Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) (CAS RN: 85535-85-9).

• Restricted Chemicals in Canada, EU, and US: Nonylphenol (CAS RN: 25154-52-3), Commercial octabromobiphenyl (CAS RN: 27858-07-7).

• Perfluorinated Substances: Perfluoro-4-ethylcyclohexane sulfonate (CAS RN: 646-83-3).

Regulatory Actions and Compliance Requirements

Mandatory Standards for Chemical Management

IChEMS sets strict measures for:

• Safe use, storage, handling, and disposal of industrial chemicals.

• New import restrictions on high-risk substances.

• Transitioning to alternative chemicals where applicable.

Public Consultation and Industry Participation

The DCCEEW seeks input from stakeholders to refine the standards. Industry professionals, chemical manufacturers, and importers are encouraged to:

• Comment on the feasibility of proposed regulations.

• Submit supporting evidence for amendments.

• Ensure compliance with updated chemical safety laws.

Future Chemical Scheduling Considerations

• Additional restrictions on high-risk chemicals.

• Regulation of emerging pollutants.

• Adoption of global best practices for chemical safety.

The IChEMS work plan can be found here.

The regulation of industrial chemicals in Australia is governed by the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 (IC Act), which came into force on March 12, 2019. This Act established the Australian Industrial C...

The regulation of industrial chemicals in Australia is governed by the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 (IC Act), which came into force on March 12, 2019. This Act established the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) and its Executive Director and provides the regulatory framework for the importation and manufacture (referred to as "introduction") of industrial chemicals into the country. The IC Act is further supported by the Industrial Chemicals (General) Rules and the Industrial Chemicals Categorisation Guidelines, which provide technical and operational details for compliance. The AICIS, which replaced the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) on July 1, 2020, operates under the Office of Chemical Safety (OCS) within the Department of Health and Aged Care. Its primary objective is to protect human health and the environment by regulating, assessing, and managing the risks associated with the introduction of industrial chemicals.

At the national level, chemicals are regulated according to their intended use, with four main authorities overseeing different sectors. The AICIS regulates industrial chemicals, including those found in paints, adhesives, inks, plastics, soaps, and cosmetics. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (AVPMA) regulates agricultural and veterinary chemicals, such as pesticides, insect repellents, and veterinary medicines. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is responsible for medicinal and therapeutic products, including skin-whitening lotions, complementary medicines, and blood products. Finally, Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) regulates food ingredients and additives, ensuring the safety of processing aids, colourings, vitamins, and minerals. These regulatory bodies work together to ensure that chemicals introduced into Australia meet safety, health, and environmental standards.
 

Key News from 2024

Australia and New Zealand Adopt Updated Sunscreen Standard

On April 11, 2024, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced the adoption of the new Australian/New Zealand Sunscreen Standard: AS/NZS 2604:2021. The update aims to align sunscreen regulations in both countries, ensuring higher standards of safety and efficacy for consumers. Key changes include improved UV protection, stricter testing requirements, updated labelling guidelines, and regulatory harmonization to facilitate smoother cross-border trade. Transitional arrangements are in place, with all new sunscreen products registered after July 1, 2024, being required to comply with the new standard. Existing products have been granted transition periods to meet the updated requirements. These changes are expected to improve public health by ensuring that only high quality sunscreen products are available on the market. Read more here.

AICIS Implements New Categorisation, Reporting, and Record-Keeping Requirements

Effective April 24, 2024, the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) implemented new categorization, reporting, and record-keeping requirements. These updates are designed to streamline compliance processes and enhance regulatory oversight. Introducers of industrial chemicals must now ensure adherence to the revised requirements in order to remain in compliance. The changes reflect the AICIS’s ongoing efforts to improve chemical regulation in Australia. Read more here.

AICIS Releases Version 3 of Industrial Chemicals Categorisation Guidelines

On September 24, 2024, the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) released Version 3 of its Industrial Chemicals Categorisation Guidelines. The major update includes a significantly expanded list of high hazard chemicals, adding nearly 600 unique entries. The revised list consolidates chemicals recognized as highly hazardous by trusted national and international bodies, such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and Japan's Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL). This expansion is designed to assist introducers in accurately categorizing chemicals as exempted, reported, or assessed, ensuring compliance with current hazard assessment standards and aligning with recent regulatory changes. Read more here.

Australia Updates IChEMS Register with New Substances and Amendments

On December 5, 2024, Australia updated the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) Register, with changes taking effect on July 1, 2025. Five substances, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hexachlorobenzene, and polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs), were added to Schedule 7 (banned use), while certain surfactants were added to Schedule 3 (controlled use). Amendments were also made to existing listings, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and pentachlorobenzene. These updates aim to strengthen environmental protection and align with global chemical management standards. Read more here.

The Australian Government has launched the National Circular Economy Framework (NCEF), a landmark initiative designed to double the circularity of Australia’s economy by 2035. This ambitious strateg...

The Australian Government has launched the National Circular Economy Framework (NCEF), a landmark initiative designed to double the circularity of Australia’s economy by 2035. This ambitious strategy aims to redefine how resources are used, reused, and regenerated across all industries, promoting environmental sustainability and economic resilience.

A Vision for Circularity

The framework envisions a future where economic growth and environmental protection go hand in hand. It outlines plans to transition from a linear “take, make, dispose” model to a circular economy where waste is minimized, and materials are kept in continuous use. With a current circularity rate of 4.6%, below the global average of 7.2%, Australia’s target to double circularity underlines the Government’s commitment to systemic change.

Key Objectives and Targets

The NCEF has set three overarching targets:

1. Reduce the Material Footprint by 10%: By emphasizing sustainable design and longer-lasting materials, Australia aims to reduce its per capita material consumption, which is currently the highest among G20 nations.

2. Increase Material Productivity by 30%: This will involve optimizing the use of raw materials in production processes, promoting innovation in recycling and manufacturing, and improving supply chain efficiency.

3. Recover 80% of Resources Safely: By increasing resource recovery rates from the current 63% to 80%, the Framework aims to minimize landfill waste and increase the recycling of critical materials.

Addressing Chemicals of Concern

A critical aspect of the Framework is to address chemicals that hinder safe recycling and reuse. The government plans to implement advanced detection technologies and green chemistry to design safer products and ensure confidence in recycled goods. These measures align with the broader vision of creating a toxin-free circular economy.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

According to modelling by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), meeting the targets could:

• Add $26 billion annually to Australia’s GDP by 2035.

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 14%.

• Divert 26 million tonnes of material from landfill each year.

By promoting a circular economy, the framework is expected to increase Australia’s competitiveness in global markets for sustainable goods, reduce dependence on virgin materials, and mitigate environmental challenges.

Sectoral Focus Areas

The NCEF prioritizes four key sectors:

• Industry: Promoting the use of recycled materials in manufacturing and investing in durable, reusable goods.

• Built Environment: Promote the use of sustainable construction materials and refurbish existing structures to reduce waste.

• Food and Agriculture: Reducing food waste and valorizing agricultural residues for biofuels and other products.

• Resources: Improving the recovery of critical minerals from mining tailings and end-of-life products.

Collaborative Implementation

The framework emphasizes collaboration across governments, businesses, investors, researchers, and individuals. Key initiatives include:

• Embedding circular principles in public procurement.

• Investing in advanced recycling technologies and shared infrastructure.

• Educating consumers about sustainable practices and promoting behavior change.

Commitment to Indigenous Knowledge

Recognizing the longstanding stewardship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Framework integrates traditional ecological knowledge into its strategies. This approach ensures that the transition to a circular economy also advances equity and inclusion.

A Pathway to Sustainability

The NCEF is Australia’s first comprehensive commitment to a national transition to a circular economy. With its targets, sectoral priorities, and collaborative approach, the framework provides a blueprint for aligning economic progress with environmental stewardship, paving the way for a sustainable future.

On 5 December 2024, Australia updated the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) Register under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Amendment (2024 Me...

On 5 December 2024, Australia updated the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) Register under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Amendment (2024 Measures No. 2) Instrument 2024, with changes to take effect from 1 July 2025. These updates introduce new chemicals and amendments to ensure that industrial chemicals are managed in accordance with national environmental safety objectives.

Background on IChEMS

The Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) provides a consistent, national framework for managing industrial chemicals based on their environmental risks. The system categorizes chemicals into Schedules 1–7, with higher Schedules reflecting stricter controls or bans. IChEMS aligns state, territorial, and federal efforts to reduce environmental harm from hazardous chemicals.

New Substances Added to the IChEMS Register

The Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Amendment (2024 Measures No. 2) Instrument 2024 introduces the following substances:

Effective 1 July 2025:

• Lauryl (dodecyl) sulfates (CAS 151-41-7, 151-21-3, and others) – Added to Schedule 3 (controlled use).

• Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (CAS 27176-87-0, 25155-30-0, and others) – added to Schedule 3 (controlled use).

• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (CAS 1336-36-3) – Added to Schedule 7 (use banned).

• Hexachlorobenzene (CAS 118-74-1) – Added to Schedule 7 (use banned).

• Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs) (CAS 61788-33-8) – Added to Schedule 7 (use banned).

Amendments to Existing Substances in Schedule 7

Key updates include:

• 1,2,3,4,5-pentachlorobenzene – Expanded allowable use for research and laboratory purposes.

• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and related compounds – Adjustments to contamination thresholds and allowable uses for existing firefighting foams.

• Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) – Minor wording update.

• Short chain chlorinated paraffins (C10–13) – Typographical correction.

Compliance Requirements

Industries must:

• Review updated Schedules 3 and 7 for newly listed chemicals and amendments.

• Ensure compliance with minimum environmental management standards.

• Adjust operational practices, particularly for substances that are now banned or restricted.

Strengthening Environmental Protection

By updating the IChEMS Register with substances such as PCBs, hexachlorobenzene and PCTs, Australia continues its commitment to managing chemicals that pose significant risks to ecosystems. These changes support national efforts to reduce pollution and align chemical management practices with global standards.