New rules on decaBDE, PFOA-related compounds in Australia

Australian importers and exporters of decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), its salts, and PFOA-related compounds will soon need to comply with new rules following the inclusion of these hazardous chemicals in the Rotterdam Convention. Changes are likely to start in mid-2023.

DecaBDE and other compounds similar to PFOA are going to be added to the list of chemicals that need authorization from the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS).

If some importers and exporters are planning to introduce any of these chemicals, they need to Apply to AICIS for import or export authorization of PFOA, its salts, PFOA-related compounds, or decaBDE (an application fee will apply). Then they will Receive authorization from AICIS before you can import or export these chemicals; it will be an offense to import or export these chemicals without authorization, and penalties apply.

Soon, Australia will modify the Industrial Chemicals (General) Rules 2019 (General Rules), which will have an impact on the country's ability to export or import decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), its salts, and PFOA-related compounds. These amendments will be made. Following the incorporation of these substances into Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention in 2022, this step has been taken.