Importation of electrical and electronic products
This information bulletin summarizes the issues about importing and selling electrical and electronic products.
In Australia, there are two types of electrical and electronic products: prescribed and non-prescribed.
- Prescribed electrical and electronic products require a Certificate of Approval issued by a Government Regulator or Recognised External Certification Scheme before it can be sold in Australia.
- Non prescribed electrical and electronic products do not require a formal certificate; however they must still meet minimum safety standards.
Prescribed Electrical Products
Australian Standard AS/NZS 4417.2:2012 – Appendix B, Part 2
Prescribed products are listed in Appendix B of Australian Standard AS/NZS 4417.2:2012 Regulatory compliance mark for electrical and electronic equipment - Part 2: Specific requirements for particular regulatory applications.
Some common examples of electrical and electronic products are:
- Electric Blankets
- Bread Toasters
- Washing Machines
- Dishwashers
- Clothes Dryers
- Cooking Appliances
- Refrigerators
- Light Switches
- Power Points
- Ceiling Fans
- Televisions
- Vacuum Cleaners
- Clothes Irons.
Prescribed products must be formally approved before they are imported into and sold in Australia. Additionally, they should comply with applicable AS/NZS electrical safety standards. The responsibility to gain the requisite approval rests with the seller of the products.
To obtain approval, NT WorkSafe recommends that you contact the Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council.
Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council
Approval enquiries should be directed to the Equipment Page of the Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council website. Note that on 1 March 2013 a new Electrical Equipment Safety System commenced across Australia. It is recommended you read the Guide to Supplying Safe Electrical Equipment to familiarise yourself with the new system.
Electrical products that are not prescribed
Any person who sells electrical and electronic products which are not prescribed is responsible for ensuring the items are safe to be connected to the electricity supply. Assurance may be achieved by obtaining a test report from an independent testing laboratory, confirming compliance with the relevant Australian/New Zealand Standards for electrical safety. This report can be provided to a prospective buyer as evidence of compliance.
Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations
Note in addition, Part 4.7 of the Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011 applies to electrical products used at workplaces.