Australia Cosmetics Regulations

The cosmetics market in Australia is valued at US$3.5bn. Australian law considers any substance or preparation intended for placement in contact with any part of the human body as a cosmetic product.  This includes personal care, skincare and make-up, and other cosmetic products.

Two main regulatory bodies manage cosmetics in Australia.  Cosmetic products, even if described as ‘natural’ or ‘organic’, are regulated as industrial chemicals, which are administered by the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS).  Cosmetic products that make therapeutic claims are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which is the Australian version of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – but without the food part.

Importers of cosmetics must register their business with AICIS, and all ingredients contained in a cosmetic, before importing the products into Australia. Cosmetic product labelling standards or product safety are regulated by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). 

Opportunities for U.S. exporters include men’s skincare, and products with sustainable ingredients and packaging. However, regulatory practices should be reviewed in advance. U.S. cosmetic companies are invited to contact Office.Australia@trade.gov for further guidance.