PACIA, the voice of the Australian chemistry industry, has reiterated the strength and rigour of Australia’s chemical regulation scheme following statements made on the ABC’s Catalyst program last night.
Australia’s stringent regulation of the chemistry industry protects consumers, public health, workers, the community and the environment.
The chemicals used in Australia are subject to rigorous health, safety and environmental controls and assessment processes.
All producers and importers of chemicals must demonstrate that these products are safe to use before they are allowed to enter the value chain or appear on shelves in our stores.
The regulatory system includes independent review and verification of the studies undertaken to assess each product.
Chemicals have revolutionised our world and are now integral to our everyday lives. We rely on chemicals to ensure people have access to clean water, safe and nutritious food, and pharmaceuticals and medical equipment to fight disease and infection.
Modern chemistry is also central to improvements in healthcare, resource efficiencies and agricultural production, and will help us to respond to emerging global challenges associated with climate change and population growth.
The chemistry industry contributes to a more sustainable society by developing innovative technologies and products while ensuring the safe, responsible and sustainable management of chemicals throughout their life cycles.
Regulatory authorities:
National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) www.nicnas.gov.au
Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) www.apvma.gov.au
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) www.foodstandards.gov.au
Media contact: Krista Imberger – [email protected] or 0439 318 290
About PACIA
PACIA is the national voice for the strategically significant, $45bn Australian chemistry industry, the second largest manufacturing sector in the country. The industry employs more than 64,000 people and adds more than $11.5bn to GDP in industry value add. Ranging in size from small family-owned businesses to national and multi-national enterprises, PACIA members include chemicals manufacturers, importers and distributors, logistics and supply chain partners, raw materials suppliers, plastics fabricators and compounders, chemicals and plastics recyclers and service providers to the industry. Read more about us at: chemistryaustralia.org.au
