The Australian federal government is planning a country-wide ban on cosmetic products that have been tested on animals, expected to come into force from July next year, according to a report published by The Sydney Morning Herald.

Assistant Health Minister Ken Wyatt announced the plans, which would prevent the sale of new cosmetic products that have been tested on animals. “We no longer need to test cosmetics on animals and many countries, including the European Union, have banned the use of cosmetic ingredients tested on animals,” he commented.

Currently, animal testing is not used for the production of cosmetics in Australia but stores are not prevented from carrying products that have been tested on animals overseas. The new legislation would not extend to existing products and brands, however.

“It’s estimated that around 27,000 animals are still being used for cosmetic testing every year,” said RSPCA Chief Scientist Bidda Jones. “We look forward to examining the detail of the Coalition’s proposed legislation, and its proposed timetable for implementation. RSPCA Australia has been consulting with all political parties on this issue for several years, and we have overwhelming support from Australians.”