Australia’s New Cooling Regulations from July 1, 2025

The landscape for domestic and commercial air conditioning climate control equipment in this country is set to change significantly as soon as July 2025 begins. Homeowners, builders, and service providers will need to familiarise themselves with updated standards aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving energy efficiency across a range of cooling units.

New rules will affect the manufacture, importation, and use of various models, particularly those relying on high global-warming potential gases. Early preparation and awareness will ensure compliance and smooth transitions when new installations or replacements are required under the revised regime.

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Key Changes in Air Conditioning Equipment Regulations

The government has broadened earlier restrictions to cover a larger variety of multi-head split models that use potent refrigerants. Stricter limits on permitted gas volumes will apply to equipment produced or brought into the country.

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Ban on importing or manufacturing small multi-head split systems using high-GWP HFCs

Manufacturers and importers will no longer be allowed to introduce small multi-head split models charged with hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) gases that have a global-warming potential (GWP) above the threshold set by the new regulation. Enforcement will begin on 1 July 2025, and penalties for non-compliance will include fines and potential loss of import licences.

• Retailers must verify that any incoming stock conforms to the new gas-type standards before shipment arrives at local wharves or risk rejection at port.

• Equipment already in the local supply chain when the regulation takes effect may still be sold, but end-users should confirm compliance marks before purchase.

• Certified installers are advised to update their procurement lists to avoid ordering models that will become illegal to supply under the revised law.

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Specifics on equipment affected, including refrigerant charge limits

The updated rules specify maximum gas quantities for each unit category, with limits reduced to kerb high-GWP gas emissions over the product lifecycle. Units exceeding the new charge thresholds will require redesign or substitution with lower-GWP alternatives to meet market standards.

• Manufacturers must redesign multi-head systems so that any single branch circuit carries no more refrigerant than the new kilogramme-based limits.

• Larger systems will face stepped reductions, meaning that the most powerful units must either use ultra-low-GWP gas blends or adopt alternative cooling technologies such as CO₂ cycles.

• Distributors should consult official gazettes detailing exact gramme-per-kilowatt ratios to ensure offered products remain fully compliant.

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Extension of previous bans on single-head systems and portable units

Building on earlier directives against single-head split systems and standalone portable units with high-GWP gases, the new regulations reinforce earlier phase-outs. Low-GWP models already approved will continue to be permitted, but any pending approvals for older gas types will be revoked.

• Portable “plug-in” climate units using banned gases can no longer be registered for sale or installation, and existing stock must be withdrawn from active marketing channels by 30 June 2025.

• Single-head fixed-wall systems imported under exemptions will see those exemptions lapse, requiring suppliers to adjust their ranges to low-GWP alternatives.

• Maintenance firms should prepare for an influx of service calls as customers seek to replace soon-unsupported units ahead of the ban’s enforcement date.

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How Do These Changes Affect New Air Conditioning Installations?

When planning new installations after mid-2025, specifiers and end-users must consider updated equipment availability and refrigerant options. Installers will need to adapt to a narrower range of compliant models and potentially higher upfront costs.

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What types of air conditioning systems are impacted?

Split-system designs with multiple indoor heads connected to a single outdoor compressor are now under strict scrutiny if they rely on legacy refrigerants. Packaged rooftop units and ducted systems will also be reviewed for refrigerant volumes and allowed gas categories.

• Multi-head setups that once offered flexibility in zoning will now require alternatives such as modular VRF systems using low-GWP blends or natural refrigerants.

• Packaged rooftop units that traditionally used HCFC replacements may need retrofitting with approved gas types or full replacement with next-generation equipment.

• Ducted configurations will face tighter gas-charge calculations, prompting installers to split large greenfield projects into multiple compliant circuits.

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Will certain systems no longer be available?

Popular entry-level models that were widely used for small offices and apartments are set to disappear from the market unless reengineered. End-users should anticipate product lines shrinking for older-style compact units.

• Local branches of international brands will phase out sub-five-kilowatt split options, urging buyers towards new mid-range systems that comply out of the box.

• Inexpensive portable cooling fans that rely on small refrigerant cartridges will see their final production runs withdrawn by manufacturers.

• Replacement parts for soon-obsolete models may become scarce, so stockpiling key components before the cutoff date could prove prudent for maintenance businesses.

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What to ask your installer before buying a new system

Consumers must ensure that any proposed model is fully certified under the July 2025 regime and carries the correct labelling. Early dialogue with technicians will help avoid surprises at point of sale or installation scheduling.

• Confirm the refrigerant type and ensure that it falls within the new permissible global-warming potential range; installers should be able to present certification documents.

• Ask for a detailed breakdown of the system’s maximum allowed gas charge; if the figure exceeds new thresholds, the quote needs revision.

• Request information on anticipated running costs for approved models versus discontinued ones, as efficiency gains may offset any price premiums on compliant units.

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Are You Affected if You Already Have Air Conditioning?

Those with existing cooling setups will want clarity on whether servicing or refurbishment remains possible after the regulatory update. Many current units will still be repairable, though some gas top-ups may be restricted.

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Do existing air conditioners need to be replaced?

Most systems installed before July 2025 can continue operating without mandatory replacement, provided they undergo regular maintenance and do not leak banned refrigerants. End-users are not required to scrap working units solely due to the new standards.

• Owners of multi-head arrangements should maintain leak-tight integrity, as any loss triggering a gas top-up might require switching to approved refrigerants.

• Single-head systems already grandfathered remain usable, but once decommissioned, they cannot legally return to service if recharged with banned gas.

• Portable units will enjoy a limited service window; once critical components fail, replacement with compliant models becomes the only lawful option.

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Can you still repair or service your current system?

Qualified technicians can maintain and service existing units using reclaimed refrigerant stocks, subject to strict record-keeping requirements. However, new gas cannot be imported or used for top-ups if it is on the banned list.

• Service contractors must hold valid reclamation licences to capture and recycle existing refrigerant gas from client sites.

• Refilling with recycled or reclaimed refrigerants is permitted, but fresh imports of restricted blends will no longer be authorised.

• Detailed logs of captured quantities and re-applications must be kept for audit by environmental authorities.

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What happens if your system uses older refrigerants?

Systems relying on phased-out gas types may incur more expensive servicing as reclaimed stocks dwindle. Users should budget for eventual conversion or full system replacement if availability of top-up gas becomes untenable.

• As legacy gas stocks are consumed, technicians may offer retrofit kits that convert equipment to approved alternative blends, though such conversions can be costly.

• In areas with heavy use of discontinued refrigerants, supply bottlenecks could mean longer lead times for maintenance appointments.

• Planning for eventual replacement with a compliant system while your existing unit still functions smoothly will help avoid reactive decisions under time pressure.

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What Should Homeowners Do to Prepare?

Proactive steps now will ensure a seamless switch when the new rules become enforceable. Early action can prevent rushed purchases and unexpected compliance gaps later in the year.

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If you’re planning to install new air conditioning after July 2025

Securing timely quotes from reputable installers familiar with the updated standards is essential. Lock in pricing for compliant systems and avoid deals on soon-to-be-obsolete models.

• Begin by identifying technicians who demonstrate up-to-date knowledge of the July 2025 changes and ask for references from recent compliant installations.

• Obtain detailed written quotes that specify the refrigerant type, maximum charge, efficiency rating, and total installation cost for products certified under the new regime.

• Schedule ordering and delivery well before winter peaks to avoid supply chain delays when compliant units see higher demand.

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Servicing, maintenance, and checking your existing system

Arrange a professional system audit to check for leaks, assess current refrigerant stocks, and plan any necessary remediation. Early detection of potential compliance issues reduces the risk of emergency service calls after the cutoff date.

• Engage a licenced technician to perform a full performance tune-up, including leak detection, filter replacement, and refrigerant quantity verification.

• Confirm that service reports include detailed breakdowns of gas quantities recovered and any top-up requirements using legal reclaimed stocks.

• Keep maintenance records organised and readily accessible should environmental inspectors request proof of proper handling.

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Where to get advice and stay up-to-date with the latest regulations

Official government publications and accredited industry associations will publish guidance documents and FAQs to clarify the new requirements. Relying on reputable sources ensures accurate understanding of complex technical thresholds.

• Regularly consult the environmental authority’s website for bulletins on approved refrigerant lists, phase-out schedules, and compliance checklists.

• Join professional bodies or subscribe to newsletters from national refrigeration and HVAC institutes to receive timely updates.

• Attend industry seminars or webinars offered by regulatory agencies and recognised training providers to remain fully aware of any further amendments.

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Compliance with the updated cooling equipment regulations is crucial for legal operation and environmental stewardship from July 2025 onwards. By understanding banned gas types, charge limits, and grandfathering provisions, consumers and service professionals can navigate the transition smoothly.

Proactive planning through early audits, informed procurement, and up-to-date service practices will minimise disruption and leverage the improved efficiency and reduced emissions that the new standards intend to achieve. Ensuring readiness today protects both the environment and the long-term performance of climate control investments in every home and business.