On March 26, 2026, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) officially opened an 8-week public consultation aiming at seeking improvements to the regulation of sunscreens in Australia. Stakeholders are invited to submit their responses by May 23, 2026.
Consultation Background
The TGA notes that the current regulatory framework for sunscreens has been in place for several years, and the regulatory landscape has evolved during this period. Recent international and domestic developments have highlighted a number of issues regarding current sunscreen regulation, including:
- Variability in sunscreen Sun Protection Factor (SPF) claims;
- Reproducibility of current SPF testing methods;
- Level of oversight of laboratories performing SPF testing;
- Understanding of sponsors (product owners) and manufacturers regarding their regulatory obligations.
Proposed Reforms
The consultation paper proposes a range of options to provide the following improvements to the current regulatory framework:
- Improving reliability and transparency of SPF testing;
- Enabling new testing technologies to be adopted in a timelier manner;
- Strengthening oversight of testing laboratories;
- Enhancing lifecycle quality assurance, including periodic testing and ingredient standards;
- Simplifying and clarifying SPF labelling requirements;
- Providing greater consistency between indications that therapeutic and cosmetic sunscreens can make;
- Updating Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidance to improve manufacturing quality.
Implementation Approach
Proposals mentioned above are intended to strengthen confidence in sunscreen performance. If accepted, options presented in the paper would be implemented in a proportionate and targeted manner, with appropriate transition periods incorporated.
CIRS Reminder
CIRS recommends companies to closely monitor regulatory developments and ensure product compliance with evolving requirements. For professional guidance on Australian sunscreen regulations and compliance requirements, please contact CIRS.
If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.
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Further Information：
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