An initial investigation has revealed that all challenged products were tested at the same UK-based laboratory conducting the SPF testing. The TGA’s review identified unreliable testing practices at this facility, prompting further investigation.

Former employees have since raised concerns about questionable manufacturing and testing standards within the facility, citing unethical practices, equipment, and safety requirements. These revelations have deepened scrutiny into the broader sunscreen supply chain.

While the TGA does not directly regulate third-party laboratories, it does oversee sunscreens as therapeutic goods to ensure they provide effective sun protection. The administration has confirmed that investigations are ongoing, particularly as Australia approaches the high UV exposure months of summer.

This situation underscores the critical importance of trust, transparency, and regulatory compliance in the sunscreen market. The TGA has invited affected companies to propose regulatory responses and is considering further laboratory testing, noting persistent challenges in the current SPF testing methodologies.

Australians are encouraged to continue using sunscreen correctly, reapplying as directed, and choosing products with verified SPF claims.

For companies, this serves as a strong reminder of the need for validated testing and accurate product claims. Our regulatory consultants can help ensure your formulations and test results meet compliance standards, giving your business and your customers peace of mind. 

Stay informed as discussions continue around potential reforms to how sunscreens are regulated and tested in Australia.

Consumers are becoming increasingly mindful of their drinking habits, embracing moderation and exploring reduced or zero-alcohol options for health and lifestyle benefits. The global market performance of no and low alcohol wines continues to show strong momentum, reflecting a sustained change in consumer preferences.

As the market evolves, producers need to understand and comply with the regulatory requirements that govern claims such as “low,” “light,” or “zero.” These descriptors must meet the relevant definitions under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

Under Standard 1.2.7, “light” or “low” is considered a comparative claim and must clearly identify the reference product on which the comparison is based and accurately represent the difference. The Code restricts certain claims and uses defined limits, advising that producers avoid using certain expressions that may not comply with requirements.

If choosing to use your true product name of Wine, it must also comply with the standards definition of a ‘wine product’.  As well, to consider the use of additives or processing aids that are not approved under the Wine Production Standard (4.5.1) may also impact your labelling.

There are tight controls around the labelling and identification of alcoholic products in Australia, with the vast compliance and definitions that manufacturers are required to follow.

Don’t get caught up in the mix up and partner with MSAC on the labelling of products to meet all legal standards of your beverages, avoiding costly errors and ensuring your brand builds trust with consumers.

Since launching in 2020, there have been significant improvements in recycling behaviour. The WA Government anticipates that the expansion will continue to help reduce waste to landfill, improve recycling rates and simplify recycling choices for consumers.

From mid-2026, consumers will be able to claim the 10 cent refund on a wider range of beverage containers (150 mL to 3 L), including:

• Glass wine and spirit bottles
• Cask and sachet packaging for wine and water
• Fruit and vegetable juice, flavoured milk, and cordial containers

Plain milk and registered health tonics will remain excluded. The expansion is expected to make around 200 million additional containers eligible each year, including 90 to 130 million glass bottles.

For beverage suppliers, the expansion brings new regulatory and operational responsibilities. Producers of wine and spirits will be required to:

• Register eligible containers under the scheme
• Apply approved refund marks and barcodes to labels
• Contribute to the refund pool through supplier payments

Suppliers will need to ensure compliance ahead of the 2026 start date to avoid supply disruptions. Businesses are encouraged to review labelling, packaging design, and approval processes early to ensure readiness for the expanded scheme.

Our team can help you navigate the compliance process, from assessing packaging eligibility and label review to preparing documentation and supplier submissions.

Contact us for tailored support ahead of the 2026 expansion.

Under the new rules as part of SA’s broader push against single-use plastics, rigid plastic soy sauce containers holding less than 30 mL are prohibited.

These tiny dispensers are considered convenience packaging that are difficult to recycle for the following reasons:

• Their small size and shape make them prone to being washed into drains.
• In kerbside recycling systems, they are usually too small to be captured by sorting machinery, ending up in landfill or plastic pollution.
• They pose risks to wildlife and marine animals.
• They degrade into microplastics that persist in the environment.

This move is a part of SA’s rolling expansion of single-use plastic bans, which have already targeted items such as plastics straws, cutlery, coffee cups and takeaway food containers.

With packaging regulations evolving rapidly across Australia, businesses need to stay ahead of upcoming bans and material restrictions. Our team can review your current packaging portfolio and identify non-compliant items to help your business stay compliant and confident under changing state and national packaging regulations.