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.
You should seek a confirmation of proposed use or an exemption before applying for an import permit from ASSEA. If you possess a valid confirmation of proposed use or an exemption, as detailed below, you do not require import permission. These documents must be provided to the Australian Border Force upon request, at the border.
Confirmations
You can import engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs if a WHS regulator confirms, in writing, the goods will be used for:
- genuine research and analysis, or
- identification and sampling of engineered stone.
Exemptions
You can import engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs if a WHS regulator grants you an exemption under:
- subregulation 684(1) or 689A(1) of the WHS Regulations, or
- a similar WHS law
Import permission
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ASSEA may grant permission to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs if:
- the importation is for genuine research and analysis and/or sampling and identifying engineered stone
- there are exceptional circumstances that justify the importation.
A Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) should only apply to ASSEA for an import permit if they have been informed that they are not eligible for an exemption or written confirmation. ASSEA will refer an applicant to the appropriate authority if evidence of the enquiry and response is not provided.
Important: Permission to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs does not permit a PCBU to supply, process or install engineered stone. Please check with your relevant WHS regulator, if you are unsure about what can or cannot be done with the engineered stone you wish to import.
Do you require permission to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs?
Read the following 3 scenarios to see whether an import permit is required.
What are exceptional circumstances?
‘Exceptional circumstances’ for granting a permit to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs will be considered in the context of all Australian governments' decisions to ban the use of engineered stone due to the unacceptable risk it poses to workers when processing this material.
Increasing stocks of engineered stone in Australia risks worker exposure to products which could require modification, repair or disposal.
Importations assessed as potentially requiring processing, whether immediately or in the future, will not be favourably considered.
Applying for a permit to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs
Complete the permit application form and email it to: permits@asbestossafety.gov.au.
Granting permission to import engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs is at the discretion of the decision maker. Applying for a permit does not guarantee that it will be granted. Applications for import permission must be supported by compelling evidence.
- Goods must not be shipped to Australia until permission is granted in writing and has been received by the applicant.
- The import permit may specify conditions or requirements which must be complied with by the permit holder.
Please allow at least 60 business days for applications to be processed.