Ban on animal testing in Australia | one step closer

Australian Government to ban animal testing. 

During the 2016 Federal Election, the Coalition committed to ban the use of animals in cosmetic testing. The date for the new law to come into force was touted as 1 July, 2017.

If the Federal Government’s commitment is realised, this will mean that from 1 July, 2017, it will be prohibited in Australia to test finished cosmetic products as well as cosmetic ingredients on animals.

It will also be against the law to sell cosmetic products or cosmetic ingredients that have been tested on animals outside of Australia. The law will, however, allow “responsible animal testing” for medical tests and drug development.

The animal testing reform will bring Australian laws in line with those of New Zealand and the EU.

In November 2016, the Department of Health undertook consultation with industry members and representatives in Sydney and Melbourne. We will report on further developments when they are made available.

What constitutes a cosmetic?

Cosmetics are defined as substances or preparations intended to come in contact with any external part of the human body with a view to:

• altering the odours of the body,
• changing its appearance,
• cleansing it,
• protecting it,
• perfuming it or
• maintaining it in good condition.

Under Australian law,  cosmetics includes many everyday items such as:

• mouthwash,
• toothpaste,
• deodorant,
• antiperspirant,
• skin moisturiser,
• soap,
• skin cleansing and acne washes,
• hygiene powders,
• hand and feet emollients,
• anti-ageing creams,
• anti-wrinkle creams,
• face masks and scrubs,
• shampoos and conditioners,
• hair dyes,
• shaving foams,
• depilatory creams,
• depilatory waxes,
• antibacterial hand washes,
• baby care products,
• secondary sunscreen products with SPF 15 or less.

For more information on animal testing, visit the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists website.

Image courtesy of michellestruth.blogspot.com.au