The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched an investigation into toys and games containing small high-powered magnets sold through online marketplaces. The regulator has requested the removal of non-compliant product listings and reminded businesses of their product safety obligations under Australian Consumer Law.
The ACCC’s investigation focuses on products marketed as ‘magnetic chess’ or ‘magnetic battle chess’ that contain separable or loose high-powered magnets.
In Australia, small, high-powered magnets have been subject to a permanent ban since 2012, when they exceed specified magnetic flux limits and pose an ingestion risk. Toys containing magnets must also comply with the mandatory Australian toy safety standard, which requires small, high-powered magnets to remain securely enclosed and inaccessible to children during normal use and abuse testing. Products that fail these criteria are considered unsafe and are prohibited from being supplied.
Magnet-related risks
The ACCC has emphasized the severe risks associated with ingesting multiple high-powered magnets, particularly for young children.
These include:
- Intestinal perforation and tissue damage when magnets attract across organs
- Internal bleeding and bowel obstruction
- Choking hazards
Such incidents can result in serious harm or even fatalities, making compliance with safety standards critical for all suppliers.
Marketplace and enforcement trends
To mitigate these risks and strengthen compliance, major online marketplaces are taking proactive steps to remove non-compliant listings, with some platforms also offering consumer refunds.
The ACCC is also continuing its investigation into suppliers and has indicated it may take enforcement action where necessary. Product safety in digital marketplaces, particularly risks to young children, has been identified as a key ACCC enforcement priority for 2026–2027, underscoring the regulator’s increasing focus on online supply chains. These developments reflect growing regulatory scrutiny of online marketplaces and suppliers regarding product safety compliance in Australia.
Ensuring compliance
Manufacturers, exporters, importers and brand owners operating in the Australian market should now:
- Review all products containing magnets against Australia’s permanent magnet ban
- Verify compliance with applicable Australian toy safety standards
- Ensure product design securely retains magnets under all expected conditions
- Assess testing records and technical documentation for compliance
- Review online listings and marketing claims for accuracy and regulatory alignment
- Take immediate corrective actions, including stopping sales or initiating recalls, if non-compliance is identified
SGS solutions
We provide a comprehensive range of testing and certification solutions to support compliance with Australian Consumer Law, including:
- Magnet ban compliance assessments
- Toy safety testing
- Product risk and design reviews
- Regulatory compliance consulting
- Product safety and market access training
We will continue to monitor product safety developments and support businesses in managing compliance risks and maintaining access to global markets.
For more information, contact your local SGS office or explore our comprehensive toy testing services.
