Australia moves to ban PFAS Firefighting Foams - What it means for marinas and boatyards

Australia moves to ban PFAS Firefighting Foams © Marina Industries Association

The Australian marine industry is facing one of its most significant reforms with the phase-out of firefighting foams containing PFAS, known as "forever chemicals."

From July 2025, AFFF foams with PFOS, PFOA, or PFHxS will be banned nationwide under the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS).

This means marinas and boatyards must replace PFAS-based systems with fluorine-free alternatives, ensure safe disposal of old equipment, and retrain crews in new firefighting methods.

Acting early will help facilities stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect marine environments from long-term contamination.

More about the recent law changes here.

PFAS Fact Sheet available here.