News Details

On 21 October 2026, the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) published a draft evaluation statement on the importation, manufacture and use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The evaluation covers 522 PFAS listed on the Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals and draws on business reports for the reporting period from 1 September 2023 to 31 August 2025. Comments are invited on the evaluation statement until 2 December 2026.

PFAS Imports and Uses

Businesses reported importing 139 of the 522 listed PFAS during the reporting period, with no manufacture reported in Australia. Of these, 48 were imported exclusively for research and development, while 91 had industrial and/or consumer uses. The most frequently reported end-use categories were lubricants and greases, paints and coatings, and adhesives and sealants. The evaluation does not assess health or environmental risks, and reporting was not required for PFAS present only as impurities or in finished articles not designed to release chemicals.

Proposed Next Steps

After analysing the data on PFAS introductions, AICIS proposes to begin an evaluation of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), considering risks to human health and the environment. TFA is a common breakdown product of many other PFAS, including some introduced in high volumes.

AICIS also proposes to add or amend specific information requirements for certain PFAS on the Inventory, requiring businesses to notify AICIS before introducing these substances for purposes other than research and development. Information reported by businesses will be used alongside other evidence to prioritise further PFAS evaluation work.

After the consultation closes on 2 December 2026, AICIS will consider feedback before finalising the evaluation.