Under the Product Emissions Standards Act 2017 (the Act), you may apply for exemptions to import or supply emissions-controlled products into Australia. The Product Emissions Standards Rules 2017 (the Rules) details the exemption categories.
Exemptions provide flexibility when strict compliance with emissions standards would be:
- impractical
- unreasonable
- contrary to the public interest.
It ensures the regulatory framework remains practical and adaptable, while delivering on health and environmental benefits.
The approved exemption categories under the Rules are:
| Paragraph | Exemption category (Rules reference) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 30(1)(a) | Export | Products will be exported from Australia but not used in Australia. |
| 30(1)(b) | Testing, evaluation and display | Products will be tested, evaluated, displayed, advertised, offered for supply or pre-ordered but not used or supplied in Australia before the products are certified. |
| 30(1)(c) | National Security | Products will be used by the Australian Defence Force, law enforcement or security agency for national security purposes. |
| 30(1)(d) | Emergency Services | Products will be used by an emergency services organisation for rescue or emergency services purposes. |
| 30(1)(e) | Organised Competition | Products will be used only in organised competition. |
| 30(1)(f) | Replacement engines | Replacement engines for uncertified, unserviceable engines. |
To learn more, read Guide to exemptions.
Applying for an exemption
Applications should be made through our portal and the application fee paid at the time of lodgement. All applicants will need to register to use the portal.
Contact us
Email: PES@nationalepa.gov.au
Phone: 1800 920 528
Product Emissions Standards Exemption Notices
In accordance with Section 32 of the Rules the following exemptions have been approved.