The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW) is changing the permitting process for imported air conditioner equipment parts orders and equipment.
From 1 July 2025, it will be illegal to import or make small multi-head split air conditioning systems that use hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with a high global warming potential (GWP).
You can get ready by:
- planning ahead so you don’t get caught out
- checking what equipment you are planning to import
- find environmentally safe and compliant alternatives for any banned equipment.
Certain air conditioning equipment and equipment designed to use refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) exceeding 750 is banned.
This ban builds on earlier rules that already apply to small single-head split systems, portable units and window or wall air conditioners.
The ban applies to outdoor units for multi-head split systems, including variable refrigerant flow systems, if the equipment:
- is made to cool or heat indoor spaces for comfort
- has a refrigerant charge of 2.6 kg or less
- uses an HFC with a GWP higher than 750 (even if it is not charged when imported).
There are some exemptions, and more bans may be introduced later.
These rules are part of the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989, which helps Australia meet its goals under the Montreal Protocol – an international agreement aimed at protecting the ozone layer and reducing emissions.
These bans remove outdated, climate-damaging air conditioning systems from use in Australia. Most new systems now use R32 (GWP 675) or, for small portable units, R-290 (propane).
To support businesses, our department is working with industry to:
- help companies to understand their responsibilities
- make sure they follow the law.
Importing or exporting a controlled substance without a valid licence or exemption is against the law and can lead to penalties.
These may include:
- official warnings
- licence suspension
- large fines.
If you notice something that doesn’t look right or may be in violation of the rules, please review the details on the HFC phase-down and consider reporting it by email at ozonereporting@dcceew.gov.au.
