Customs Amendment (Expedited Seizure and Disposal of Engineered Stone) 2024

# Customs Amendment (Expedited Seizure and Disposal of Engineered Stone) 2024 ## What it does Australian customs officials can now faster destroy engineered stone products that are seized at the border and confirmed as prohibited imports—rather than storing them indefinitely or going through lengthy disposal processes. The law amends customs rules to give the Comptroller-General of Customs clear authority to destroy these goods without extra red tape. ## Why it matters Engineered stone (also called manufactured or artificial stone, used for benchtops and tiles) was banned from import in 2024 because of serious health risks—it contains dangerous levels of crystalline silica that causes a lung disease called silicosis. Faster destruction of illegal shipments closes loopholes and stops dodgy products reaching Australian consumers and tradies. ## Key details - **What triggers it**: When customs seizes engineered stone at the border and confirms it's prohibited, officials can now destroy it immediately on their own authority (previously required more formal legal steps) - **Commencement**: The law took effect the day after receiving Royal Assent (passed the House in 2024) - **Who it affects**: Importers trying to bring in engineered stone products, and the customs officials enforcing the ban

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