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Emissions standards exist as part of a national framework to reduce air pollution and improve air quality. Emissions standards are important as they impact the environment and the quality of the air we breathe. Air quality can have temporary and lasting impacts on our health.
Importers and suppliers play a critical role in maintaining Australia’s air quality. This can be done through checking certification, ensuring correct labelling, and only sourcing compliant products. Importing approved products enables consumers to make environmentally responsible purchases supporting Australia’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Products covered by the standards
Emissions-Controlled Products (ECPs) are:
new, complete non-road spark-ignition engines with maximum engine power of 19 kilowatts or less
new, complete spark-ignition propulsion marine engines of any power capacity.
Examples of products that are ECPs include but are not limited to:
Before importing or supplying ECPs, you must ensure the productsmeet the requirements set out in the Product Emissions Standards Rules 2017 (the Rules). This includes checking the products are certified by a recognised authority, correctly labelled, and you maintain necessary records.
There are important details to consider when importing or supplying ECPs in Australia.
Equipment classified as an ECP must have either:
an Australian emissions certificate, or
an emissions certificate from one of the following recognised foreign regulatory authorities:
United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA)
If you import, supply or manufacture ECPs during a financial year you will need to keep the following records for 5 years:
details and quantities of the products you have imported or supplied
who supplied the products to you and the name of the person who you sold the product
the purchase price of the product excluding GST
Australian or foreign certificate of conformity
if applicable the exemption number and the conditions to which the exemption was granted.
Understanding penalties
Importers, suppliers and manufacturers are legally responsible under the Product Emissions Standards Act 2017 (the Act) and the Rules for ensuring ECPs meet all emissions, certification, marking, and record-keeping requirements. Customs brokers can assist with importation, but compliance with the Act is your responsibility.
The types of penalties that could apply if you do not comply with the emissions standards include infringement notices (fines), injunctions, and forfeiture of products.