Sun setting on dark side of tanning

Commercial tanning units will be completely banned in Queensland under changes to legislation announced today.

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said UV tanning beds would be switched off from 31 December 2014, in line with similar bans proposed in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia.

“Queenslanders have becoming increasingly aware of the dangers of ultra violet radiation in recent years and we’ve listened to their concerns regarding the ongoing existence of solariums in this state,” Mr Springborg said.

Changes to legislation announced in December 2012 had prohibited licenses for new solariums and given businesses time to prepare for a total ban.

“Consultation with the industry has shown businesses feel confident in being able to transition away from the use of UV tanning products without adversely impacting the business,” he said.

“Each of the 44 operators licensed to provide UV-based tanning services in Queensland will be contacted about the ban.

“A vast majority, 32 in fact, have licenses that expire and will not be renewed before 31 December 2014 when the ban comes into effect.

“While affected businesses were forewarned that licenses would not be renewed, the Government would still adopt a model for compensation and disposal.

“As licenses expire, Queensland Health will collect and dispose of the machines.

“We will provide $1000 in compensation for each machine in a scheme worth $160,000.”

[ENDS] 20 October 2013

Media contact: Clare Mildren 0417 255 284