Direct answer: Map the Australian duty holder and jurisdiction before preparing an SDS.
Identify the Australian duty holder
Manufacturers and importers carry core duties for classification and SDS preparation. Suppliers and workplace PCBUs have different provision, access and risk-management responsibilities.
Use GHS 7 as the classification baseline
Newly manufactured and imported workplace hazardous chemicals must be classified and communicated using GHS 7, subject to the law applying in the relevant jurisdiction.
Connect SDS and label decisions
Product identity, classification, signal word, pictograms and hazard statements should come from one approved evidence record.
Separate supply and workplace controls
A correct supplier SDS does not replace a hazardous chemical register, worker access, training, storage controls or site risk assessment.
Store the jurisdiction
Model WHS laws do not apply automatically. Record the Commonwealth, state or territory governing each operation and confirm local variations.
Practical example
An overseas formulator sells through an Australian importer into New South Wales and Victoria. The importer validates the Australian SDS and label, while each workplace maps its own regulator, register and controls.
Release checklist
- Assign manufacturer, importer, supplier and PCBU roles
- Confirm GHS 7 basis
- Link SDS and label classification
- Record state or territory
- Keep workplace controls separate
Common mistakes
- Calling Safe Work Australia the enforcement regulator
- Using an overseas SDS unchanged
- Assuming model laws apply identically everywhere
Frequently asked questions
Is Safe Work Australia the regulator?
No. It develops national policy and model materials; the Commonwealth, states and territories regulate and enforce WHS laws.
Is GHS 7 used in Australia?
Yes. Safe Work Australia states GHS 7 is the current system for newly manufactured and imported hazardous chemicals.
Does every chemical need an SDS?
The model WHS framework requires an SDS for hazardous chemicals unless an exemption applies.
Can software determine the jurisdiction?
It can store and route it, but the business must confirm which law applies.
Primary sources
- Safe Work Australia · Hazardous chemicals overview
- Safe Work Australia · Adoption of GHS 7
- Safe Work Australia · WHS legislation and jurisdictions
Review notice: AUSTRALIAN REGULATORY AND JURISDICTIONAL REVIEW REQUIRED BEFORE INDEXING.