Development of the asbestos containing material risk assessment model

The National Guide for Asbestos Surveys (the National Guide) sets a consistent, best practice standard for identifying and assessing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) across Australia. The National Guide incorporates an ACM risk assessment model developed by the Victorian Asbestos Eradication Agency (VAEA).

Information sheet - Asbestos in coloured sand

This information sheet provides guidance about the presence of asbestos identified in some imported decorative and coloured sand products used mainly in therapeutic and children’s play and craft activities.

Laboratory testing

You need to be able to confirm that goods are not engineered stone when importing any type of benchtop, panel or slab that resembles engineered stone. If you are unable to provide appropriate assurances testing will be required.

If the ABF finds engineered stone

If the ABF detects unlawfully imported engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs at the border, they may provide the importer with the opportunity to have the goods re-exported or destroyed at cost to the importer. 

Frequently asked questions

Below are some answers to commonly asked questions about importing engineered stone, and engineered stone declarations, permissions and exemptions. If you do not find the answer to your question here, please contact us.

Declarations

An import declaration is required for the lawful importation of prohibited goods into Australia. 

Confirmations, exemptions and permissions

You need one of the following before you can lawfully import engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs:

  • a valid import permit
  • a confirmation of proposed use
  • an exemption. 

What is and is not banned

The engineered stone ban does not apply to all manufactured stone materials, but rather to certain engineered stone products, for which uncontrolled processing poses significant health risks.