Importation prohibited

Importing goods that contain asbestos into Australia is prohibited under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956. If you are an importer of goods into the country, it is your responsibility to make sure those goods do not contain asbestos. Do not assume that goods labelled “asbestos free” are free of asbestos.

Despite the known health risks, many countries allow low levels of particular types of asbestos to be used for manufacturing. Goods manufactured outside Australia might be labelled "asbestos free" and still contain low levels of asbestos.

Examples of imported goods or products that may contain asbestos include:

• Building materials such as cement compound board, heat resistant sealing and caulking compounds, electrical cloths and tapes.
• Motor vehicles, bikes and parts – in components such as gaskets, seals and brake linings.
• Components in mining or heavy industry equipment, such as gaskets, joining materials in flues and friction material.

More information can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.