Asbestos detections at the border

Data around previous unlawful imports are used to protect Australia from possible future unlawful imports. If an organisation has had previous unlawful imports their shipments will be under greater scrutiny. 

From 2020, the ABF has provided ASSEA with data regarding detections of asbestos at the border.

Data about the border detection of goods containing asbestos has been provided to ASSEA by the ABF for publication since 2020. This informs importers of the risk for certain goods and also illustrates that chrysotile asbestos is the most common type of asbestos detected, despite bans on its use in many other countries. 

The ABF enforces asbestos import/export prohibition by carrying out targeted inspections in line with Commonwealth legislation. This is crucial to protecting the Australian public and consumers. 

The following categories of goods have been detected at the border containing asbestos:
  • Raw asbestos silicate
  • Light utility vehicle
  • Industrial plant
  • Jewellery
  • Light utility vehicle parts
  • Building products including fibre boards of various descriptions
  • Therapeutic minerals
  • Machinery
  • Cut natural stone tiles and slabs
  • Vehicles
  • Machinery parts
  • Bulk raw materials
  • Vehicle parts
  • Gaskets and friction materials
  • Crayons
  • Aircraft
  • Construction plant/equipment
  • Gas cylinders
  • Aircraft parts
  • Agricultural equipment
  • Chemical products
  • Bee smokers
  • Maritime vessel parts
  • Heating equipment
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Questions regarding this data can be directed to enquiries@asbestossafety.gov.au