PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS to be Banned Under IChEMS Framework Starting 1 July 2025

Australia has announced a major regulatory step to restrict over 500 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS). Effective 1 July 2025, the regulation targets persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic PFAS compounds, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to chemical safety and environmental protection.

Understanding PFAS and Associated Risks

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in applications such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, food packaging, and stain-resistant coatings. Due to their stability, PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" and have been linked to significant health and environmental concerns, including:

• Reproductive and developmental disorders
• Liver and kidney damage
• Certain cancers
• Immune system disruption

Chemicals Targeted for Restriction

The regulations specifically ban the following high-risk PFAS compounds under Schedule 7 of IChEMS:

• PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid)
• PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid)
• PFHxS (Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid)

These substances will be prohibited from manufacture, import, use, or export, unless a specific exemption is granted by authorities.

In addition to these, more than 500 related PFAS chemicals will be subject to restrictions, including limits on concentration, use, or distribution, based on their potential risks.

Regulatory Oversight and Enforcement

Implementation of the PFAS restrictions will be led by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). Enforcement responsibilities will be delegated to state and territory regulators, who will:

• Conduct audits and inspections
• Enforce compliance through penalties
• Provide technical guidance to industry

Compliance Roadmap for Industry

Stakeholders handling or supplying PFAS are urged to take the following actions before the mid-2025 enforcement date:

• Conduct PFAS audits of products, materials, and supply chains
• Identify safer alternatives and begin transition planning
• Review IChEMS exemptions and compliance requirements
• Maintain detailed records of PFAS use, import, or disposal

Educational tools and resources to support these actions are available via the Department of Health and DCCEEW websites.

A Proactive Move Toward Safer Chemistry

Australia’s PFAS restrictions under the 2025 IChEMS regulations represent a decisive step in reducing long-term chemical hazards. By restricting over 500 PFAS compounds, the country is taking a leadership role in global chemical management and protecting both environmental and public health from the irreversible impacts of “forever chemicals.”

References:

DCCEEW – PFAS Regulation
Australian Department of Health – PFAS Information