27 July 2026

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Regulations 2018

Notice of intention to make a decision on a facility licence application

As required by subsection 48(2) of the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Regulations 2018, the CEO of ARPANSA hereby gives notice of her intention to make a decision under section 32 of the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998 regarding the following application for a facility licence:

Application No. A01197 by Department of Home Affairs for a sitting and construction licence for a prescribed radiation facility, specifically a mobile linear accelerator to be used by the Australian Border Force at Melbourne Container Examination Facility (CEF).

A mobile linear accelerator is an X-ray machine that uses electricity to generate the X-ray beams to image materials and equipment.

27 July 2026

Buzz Lightyear, the galaxy’s favourite hero and the best partner a sheriff could ask for, facing foes armed with his glow in the dark suit and wrist laser blaster, he’s the toy every child dreams of.  We asked one of our senior regulatory officers, Dr Chris Brzozek, if Buzz was a real toy, would his features be safe.

Dr Brzozek, is radium used to make Buzz glow in the dark?

Painting materials with the highly radioactive metal, radium, was discontinued long before Buzz first landed in cinemas, so it's unlikely he would pose a radium risk. These days most toys glow in the dark using phosphors such as zinc sulfide and strontium aluminate which absorb natural light and then release it. 

Radium was used from the 1910s to 1960s to make objects, mostly watches and clocks, glow in the dark. As radium decays, it reacts with other particles in the paint to cause a glow. Radium loses its radioactivity over time, causing that glow to fade. While it may not still glow in the dark, the radioactivity may still be there. 

A quick test to see if there is radium in your watch or any other object is to wrap it in aluminum foil and place it inside a light-sealed box or drawer for a few days. Then, look at it in complete darkness to see if it glows. If it glows on its own without being exposed to any natural or UV light, it is radioactive. 

Is Buzz’s wrist laser blaster safe?

In the movies it’s established that Buzz’s wrist laser blaster or pointer is just a light, but there are some toys that do include lasers. In Australia, devices that include lasers must have a radiant power output of 1mW or less to be legally purchased. Laser pointers above a power output of 1mW are technically considered prohibited weapons and are illegal to possess without a permit. Lasers below this power level are safe because the body’s aversion response or ‘blink reflex’ protects the eye from any damage. If you’ve got a toy that has a laser only shine it at other toys. Do not point lasers, even those with 1mW or less, at your eyes, other people’s eyes, people who are operating vehicles or animals’ eyes. Not only could it be harmful and cause blindness, but it’s also just not very nice! 

What would be your message to parents looking to buy a toy like Buzz for their children?

This is a cliché statement, but it’s a truism for a reason, make sure to check the label. If the power output is not labelled on the toy or laser pointer, it should be returned to the police as it’s potentially harmful. You can also contact the ACCC as you may be able to get a refund if the product isn’t labeled correctly. Make sure children playing with toys that contain lasers are supervised. 

Further information:

• We have a fact sheet on our website about laser pointers and safety: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/lasers
• We have a Q&A about ionising radiation in consumer products on our website: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/ionising-radiation-and-health/frequently-asked-questions
• The German Federal Office of Radiation Protection (BfS) has this fact sheet about luminous paints in watches: https://www.bfs.de/EN/topics/ion/daily-life/watches/watches_node.html

23 July 2026

ARPANSA's s Director Primary Standards Dosimetry Laboratory, Duncan Butler has contributed to international research recognised with the Galileo Galilei Award 2025 for Best Publication by the European Federation of Organisations for Medical Physics (EFOMP).

 The award-winning paper brought together researchers from 23 countries to develop a practical method for measuring cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging doses in radiotherapy centres using equipment that is commonly available around the world, such as Farmer ionisation chambers and water-equivalent slab phantoms used for routine radiotherapy quality assurance.

The approach helps clinics optimise imaging doses and strengthen patient safety, even where specialised dosimetry equipment for the precise measurement, calculation and assessment of radiation dose is not available. Dosimetry helps ensure patients receive accurate radiation doses during medical treatment.

As part of the project, Duncan provided technical expertise from ARPANSA's Primary Standards Dosimetry Laboratory (PSDL), including calibration data and advice on radiation detectors used in medical imaging. The laboratory's measurements helped researchers develop correction factors that enable accurate dose assessments across a wide range of clinical settings. 

 The contribution reflects the important role of ARPANSA's PSDL, Australia's primary authority for radiation dose measurement standards. The laboratory provides accredited calibration services for radiotherapy dosimeters used by cancer treatment providers to ensure equipment such as linear accelerators and kilovoltage X-ray systems are accurate. The PSDL's services help inform national standards and support safe, consistent and effective radiotherapy across Australia. 

This international recognition highlights how ARPANSA's measurement science expertise supports advances in radiation safety and patient care, both in Australia and around the world.

Find out more about PSDL calibration services: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/our-services/testing-and-calibration/calibra…

17 July 2026

Experts from Australia and New Zealand have published a commentary paper in the New Zealand Medical Journal that evaluates the latest evidence on radiofrequency electromagnetic energy (EME) exposure.

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s (ARPANSA) Associate Professor Ken Karipidis was an author on the paper.

He says that when you consider all the available science, there is no substantiated evidence that exposure to EME from wireless technologies like mobile phones causes any health effects.

‘In the last few years there has been a lot of research activity in this space,’ A/Prof Karipidis said.

‘In part that is due to the World Health Organization’s commissioned systematic reviews on the potential adverse health effects from EME exposure, which were all recently published.

‘Generally speaking, most of the systematic reviews found no association with adverse health effects and exposure to EME. But the evidence is limited in some areas.

‘Most importantly the systematic review investigating human observational studies and cancer found no association between using a mobile phone and brain or other cancers.

‘A systematic review investigating experimental animals and cancer did report associations with some cancers, but the methods in that systematic review were flawed and have been widely criticised in the field. 

‘As such, science in this space must continue so that we can reassure policy makers and the public that new and emerging technologies that expose users to radio frequency electromagnetic energy are safe.’

A/Prof Karipidis was an author on the paper with New Zealand expert Professor Mark Elwood.

‘Findings in New Zealand are consistent with what we have found in Australian studies, which is that despite the massive increase in mobile phone use in the last 40 years there has not been a correlating increase in brain cancers.’

As the Australian Government’s primary authority on radiation protection and nuclear safety, ARPANSA will continue to monitor and lead research on the potential adverse health effects from exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic energy. 

You can read the paper in the New Zealand Medical Journal here: https://nzmj.org.nz/journal/vol-139-no-1638/health-risks-of-radiofrequency-electromagnetic-fields-and-the-world-health-organization-s-programme 

Article publication date

4 June 2026

ARPANSA review date

June 2026

Summary

This Australian cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of skin cancer in people participating in outdoor recreational activities in Queensland and exposed to high ultraviolet radiation (UV) levels. It compared the prevalence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma (MM) among people who were  involved in aquatic  (surfing and swimming) and non-aquatic (walking, running and cycling) activities. A total of 1,403 adults (aquatic n=512, or non-aquatic n=891) attending primary care skin cancer clinic between September 2021 and August 2024 took part in the study. Each participant completed a survey on outdoor activity, sun exposure and sun-protection behaviours and underwent a full-body skin examination, with suspicious lesions confirmed by histopathology. 

The study found that those who primarily participate in aquatic activities had a significantly higher prevalence of melanoma compared with non-aquatic participants (9.4% versus 5.4%) with an increased odds ratio of 1.82 (95% confidence interval 1.20-2.75). There was no significant difference for other skin cancers. Aquatic participants reported lower lifetime outdoor time than non-aquatic participants but reported higher participation in activities during peak UV periods (84.2% versus 55.1%). Aquatic participants also reported greater sunscreen use but lower use of protective clothing. 

Published in

Peer J

Link to

ARPANSA commentary

The study found that exposure to higher UV levels and the lower use of protective clothing in people participating in aquatic activities may contribute to higher melanoma levels. However, because this is a cross-sectional study and information on exposure and outcome are occurring simultaneously, it cannot prove that the cancer outcome is due to the exposure. The results of the study are consistent with the established evidence that people exposed to higher UV levels are more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma (Wojcik et al., 2018 and Cancer Australia, 2025). Every year in Australia there are approximately 60 cases of melanoma for every 100,000 persons and it is estimated that over 63%, and maybe even up to 95%, of them are attributable to UV exposure (Olsen et al., 2015 and Armstrong and Kricker, 1993). 

The findings reinforce the importance of effective UV protection for people who spend substantial time outdoors, particularly those participating in activities without applying UV protection measures. The results also highlight the importance of regular skin surveillance among individuals with high levels of recreational UV exposure. ARPANSA recommends that people minimise UV exposure when the UV Index is 3 or above and use a combination of sun-protection measures including following the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide protective measures. ARPANSA also provides a real time UV index and estimation of UV dose. The results also highlight the importance of regular skin surveillance among individuals with high levels of recreational UV exposure.

22 June 2026

Local and international scientists and professionals are attending the annual BioEM conference in Cairns from 21 – 26 June. 

This is the largest and most significant international conference in the field of bioelectromagnetics - an area of science that evaluates the human health effects from electromagnetic energy (EME).  

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s (ARPANSA) Chief Radiation Health Scientist, Dr Rick Tinker, says BioEM is one of the key scientific forums for ARPANSA’s scientists, professionals, and regulators in the field of radiofrequency EME safety.    

‘At the BioEM conference we are proud to showcase our world-leading research, risk communication and safety standards,’ Dr Tinker said.  

‘The annual conference fosters knowledge sharing, improves research outcomes, and provides valuable insights into emerging trends and innovations in EME protection.’ 

ARPANSA staff will present and facilitate workshops on a range of topics including:     

• Health impact assessments on EME exposure 
• Risk communication 
• EME measurement 
• EME guidlines.  

Engagement with leading international experts and authorities in this field informs our safety standard, research and public health advice on EME protection.  

‘We look forward to sharing our latest research with the broader bioelectromagnetic community to advance knowledge and ensure protection of people and the environment from EME remains robust and evidence-based into the future,’ Dr Tinker said.  

BioEM 2026 will be held at the Cairns Convention Centre from 21 – 26 June.  

Find out more: https://bioem.org/bioem2026/home/ 

Article publication date

12 May 2026

ARPANSA review date

09 June 2026

Summary

This study modelled the effect of ozone depletion on the incidence and mortality of ultraviolet (UV) radiation related diseases like cataract and various types of skin cancer in both the USA and Australia. The model first calculated the influence of historical and projected emissions of ozone depleting substances on stratospheric ozone and the subsequent influence on environmental UV radiation. The model then combines this with information about populations in Australia and the USA to compute changes in the rates of relevant health effects.

Depletion of stratospheric ozone was found to have slightly increased the incidence of related health effects including 0.5% increase for cataract, 1% for melanoma and 5% increase for squamous cell carcinoma in both countries. The study estimated that Australians were exposed to 24% more biologically weighted UV radiation than the USA’s population. The difference arose from the closer proximity of Australia’s population distribution to the equator, lower stratospheric ozone at comparable latitudes and disparities in earth-sun distance in comparable seasons. However, the related incidence and mortality calculations greatly underestimated the actual difference in incidence and mortality between Australia and the USA, particularly for basal- and squamous cell carcinoma. The authors attribute this disparity to factors that are not captured by their model such as genetic susceptibility, exposure patterns and diagnosis practices.

Published in

GeoHealth 

Link to

Effects of Ozone-Depleting Substances on Ultraviolet Radiation and Skin Cancer Rates in Australia and the United States of America

ARPANSA commentary 

This study applied sophisticated methods to model ozone depletion and calculate its subsequent effect on various health endpoints. The calculated influence of ozone depletion on UV levels highlights the importance of adherence to the Montreal Protocol, the international agreement that prohibits continued use of ozone depleting substances. Without this key international intervention, stratospheric ozone would have continued to deplete and environmental UV intensity would have continued to rise in tandem. As the overwhelming majority of skin cancers can be attributed to sun exposure (Olsen et al., 2015; Armstong & Kricker, 2001), a further rise in environmental UV radiation caused by continued ozone depletion would cause a commensurate rise in the related health endpoints.

The study also highlights the large difference in the rates of skin cancer between Australia and the USA and that it is unlikely that this large difference can be wholly attributed to the difference in environmental UV radiation. As acknowledged by the authors, there are factors that contribute to the incidence and mortality of skin cancers and cataract that are not accounted for in their model. This aligns with previous research that has demonstrated that certain patterns of exposure behaviour produce a large effect on the incidence of skin cancer (Kricker et al., 2007; Veierød et al., 2010). 

Taken together, these findings underscore the importance of vigilant sun protection practices using all five sun safety measures whenever the UV index is 3 or more. ARPANSA maintains a network of UV monitoring stations across Australia that can be used to see the UV index in real time. The SunSmart Global UV app also provides information about UV intensity and recommended sun protection times for all locations. 

15 June 2026

Occupational exposure to medical and therapeutic uses of non-ionising radiation was the focus of a workshop hosted by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the International Commission on Occupational Health in Italy last month.

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s Associate Professor Ken Karipidis contributed his expertise to the workshop, which was attended by over 100 professionals and scientists from over 20 countries. 

A/Prof Karipidis is also the ICNIRP Vice Chair. 

‘While non-ionising radiation doesn’t have enough energy to damage DNA in cells, its application can still cause burns, eye-injuries and other harms to patients and workers when not used correctly,’ A/Prof Karipidis said.

‘The use of non-ionising radiation in medical and therapeutic settings, like MRIs and cosmetic laser procedures, is a growing field with inconsistent regulation, and not as much research of the long-term health impacts compared to other non-ionising radiation exposures like mobile phone use. 

‘It’s important that research, regulations, standards, and proper operating procedures are developed to ensure the safe use of these technologies for patients and workers.

‘This workshop in Italy was an opportunity to discuss current international best practices to safely use non-ionising radiation in medical settings and identify future research and regulatory opportunities.’  

As one of the preeminent experts in the field, A/Prof Karipidis is currently supervising two PhD projects that are investigating topics related to the protection of consumers and workers exposed to non-ionising radiation in medical and other occupational settings. 

ARPANSA experts like Ken apply their scientific knowledge and experience with international best practice to promote the awareness of the effects of radiation for the protection of people and the environment. 

Learn more about this workshop: https://www.icnirp.org/en/activities/news/news-article/occupational-protection-medical-nir-workshop-report-may-2026.html

11 June 2026

10 June 2026

Security was the central theme of the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s (ARPANSA) 2026 licence holders forum – highlighting the growing complexity of regulating nuclear and radiological assets in a rapidly changing world.
 

Held in Canberra, the annual forum – running for more than 15 years – brought together representatives from across government, research and industry to share knowledge, strengthen relationships and examine the challenges across the sector.
 

‘ARPANSA regulates Commonwealth entities that use or produce radiation, so these annual forums are essential for our stakeholders to broaden their understanding of regulatory practices to assist them in meeting their obligations and improving safety outcomes,’ said Jim Scott, Chief Regulatory Officer of ARPANSA.
 

Drawing on practical, real-world examples, the presenters emphasised the importance of resilience, adaptability and strong protective measures to ensure secure and safe operations. 
 

‘These discussions reinforce the need for licence holders to remain responsive to change while maintaining robust safeguards across both physical and cyber domains,’ said Mr Scott.
 

The conversation continued during a dedicated security panel featuring representatives from ARPANSA, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) and CSIRO. 
 

Panel members shared perspectives on managing security across geographically dispersed assets, adapting to emerging technologies and the need for licence holders to take a proactive, risk-informed approach to maintaining effective security measures.
 

The program also focused on equipping licence holders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and ongoing training programs to ensure safe operations and ongoing regulatory compliance. 
 

‘There has never been a time where vigilance and effective risk management has been as important as they are now’ said ARPANSA’s CEO, Dr Gillian Hirth. 
 

‘Licence holders must understand the threat, identify the risks and work to mitigate them.’ 
 

As the forum concluded, one message stood out: ensuring the safety and security of Australia’s nuclear and radiation sector is a shared responsibility.
 

Through open discussion and collaboration, the forum demonstrated a strong commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats. 
 

‘As the operating environment continues to evolve, we want to develop open and transparent dialogue to strengthen safety and security culture and ensure our radioactive materials and facilities are managed effectively and efficiently,’ said Dr Hirth.
 

Read more about ARPANSA’s regulatory services: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/regulation-and-licensing/regulation/about-regulatory-services