Australia’s medicine regulator has recommended changes to the sunscreen industry.
More than 2,000 people in Australia die of skin cancer and melanoma annually.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has suggested introducing clearer SPF labelling on products, more reliable SPF testing, and updated testing technology.
It comes after consumer group Choice found several sunscreens had different UV coverage than their labels suggested.
Background
Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world, with one person diagnosed every 30 minutes.
In 2025, consumer group Choice found several Australian sunscreens didn’t offer the level of SPF promised on the label.
All the sunscreens Choice tested were labelled as offering UV 50 protection, and were for sale.
SPF
Sun protection factor (SPF) is the rating given to products that provide a level of protection against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun.
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Overexposure to UVR is linked to damage to the eyes and skin, and melanoma (a form of skin cancer).
Sunscreens on the Australian market must have a minimum SPF of 4, which protects from 75% of UVR.
Recommendations
The TGA has proposed recommendations to improve sunscreen regulation, including:
- Making SPF testing more reliable.
- Implementing stronger monitoring of labs testing SPF.
- Making SPF labels clearer and more simple.
The TGA said it is considering replacing numerical SPF ratings (e.g. SPF 50) on sunscreen bottles with ratings such as low, medium, high and very high coverage.
Choice campaigns director Andy Kelly said that while the group doesn’t support that recommendation, it “welcomes” the TGA’s announcement and “commends [it] for acting”.
