In response to the increasing cases of workers developing the incurable and fatal lung disease silicosis, the Australian federal government has announced a ban on engineered stone products. This decision was reached during the Industrial Relations Ministers Meeting on December 13, 2023, where Commonwealth, state, and territory leaders unanimously agreed to the national ban. The ban is based on the findings and recommendations of Safe Work Australia's Decision Regulation Impact Statement, which highlights the prohibition on the use of engineered stone under the model WHS (Work Health and Safety) laws.

Ministers have agreed to prohibit the use, supply, and manufacture of all engineered stone, with most jurisdictions planning to implement the ban starting from July 1, 2024. The decision was supported by the following key findings:

• The incidence of silicosis and silica-related diseases among Australian workers, particularly those in the engineered stone industry, has significantly increased.
• The dust generated during the processing of engineered stone has unique physical and chemical properties that contribute to the development of more rapid and severe diseases.
• There is no scientific evidence supporting a safe threshold of crystalline silica content in engineered stone, nor is there evidence that lower silica content engineered stone is safer to work with.
• Silicosis is a preventable disease, but compliance with WHS laws is lacking across industries, resulting in inadequate protection for workers.

Queensland initially proposed the ban in 2018 due to the growing health issues faced by workers, including silicosis, caused by the use of engineered stone.

Additionally, the Australian government plans to implement a complementary customs prohibition on engineered stone, adding an extra layer of enforcement and deterrence at the border. Ministers have also agreed to establish a harmonized national labor hire licensing scheme, which will be further discussed in mid-2024, along with the draft intergovernmental agreement and funding for its establishment.

To allow for a smooth transition, a grace period will be provided for contracts entered into on or before the announcement date.

The definition of engineered stone excludes concrete and cement products, bricks, pavers, porcelain products, ceramic wall and floor tiles, roof tiles, grout, mortar, render, and plasterboard.

Major retailers, including Bunnings and IKEA, have already committed to phasing out sales of engineered stone in line with the ban.