Are incandescent bulbs illegal in Australia?

Author: Gillian Rohan  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Due to its inefficiency, incandescent bulbs will be obsolete in no time. The government bans these traditional bulbs while promoting the use of modern and energy-saving kinds of bulbs. Moreover, most people now favour the use of other types of bulbs, such as LEDs and CFLs, which supports energy efficiency.

When were incandescent light bulbs banned in Australia?

Traditional pear-shaped incandescent bulbs waste 90% of the energy they use, mainly as heat. These light bulbs were phased out first, with an import restriction that applied from 1 February 2009, followed by a sales restriction from November 2009. The phase-out has since expanded to other types of incandescent lamps.

Are incandescent light bulbs still available in Australia?

Australia. In February 2007, Australia enacted a law that, in effect, by legislating efficiency standards, disallow most sales of incandescent light bulbs by 2010.

What countries have banned incandescent bulbs?

The E.U. is not the only country banning incandescent light bulbs. Australia has already introduced the new light bulbs and Cuba is only using compact fluorescent bulbs. In the United States, incandescent bulbs are planned to be phased out in 2012.

Why did US ban incandescent bulbs?

Why certain light bulbs are now banned. General service lamps, or lightbulbs, are now being regulated to conserve energy and help consumers save on their energy bills, according to the Department of Energy. New technology, such as LED lights, are proving to be much more efficient at lighting homes.

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Can I still buy incandescent lights?

The federal rule on general service lamps essentially eliminates most halogen and incandescent products, but not compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Because CFLs contain mercury, some states have banned these products.

Is incandescent healthier than LED?

LED lights are generally considered safer than incandescent bulbs due to their lower operating temperature. Incandescents produce a significant amount of heat, posing a fire risk if they come into contact with flammable materials. In contrast, LEDs emit very little heat, reducing the risk of burns or fire hazards.

What bulb is closest to incandescent?

Halogen light bulbs are affordable and energy-efficient bulbs. They mimic the warm glow of incandescent lighting.

Are fluorescent tubes being phased out in Australia?

From 7 March 2022, Australia prohibited the import, export and manufacture of some compact fluorescent lamps, linear fluorescent lamps, high pressure mercury vapour lamps, and mercury in cold cathode fluorescent lamps and external electrode fluorescent lamps for electronic displays. There are some exemptions.

Are incandescent light bulbs better for your eyes?

Incandescent lights may be the best option for specific locations if you or a family member is particularly sensitive to eye strain. While not as energy-efficient as LED bulbs, warm incandescent lights are better for the eyes.

What light bulbs are used in Australia?

Base types are the different shapes of a light bulb that fit into a lampholder or light socket. There are two main light bulb types commonly used in Australia; Bayonet (B22) and Edison Screw (E27). The lettering and numbering used to differentiate these bulbs types refers to the base cap and measurement.

Do LED lights add to an electric bill?

Lighting accounts for around 15% of an average home's electricity use, and the average household saves about $225 in energy costs per year by using LED lighting. if you are still using incandescent light bulbs, switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut your energy bills.

Why does the Australian government not recommend the use of incandescent light bulbs?

The Australian Government announced that all inefficient light bulbs will be phased out in favor of more efficient compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). The phase-out delivers considerable savings to the environment and the economy.

Why is it illegal to change your own light bulb in Australia?

Many websites argue that it is an offence for you to change your own lightbulb in Victoria. Fortunately, we can report that there is nothing in the legislation to indicate that this is fact. You are precluded from undertaking your own electrical work, but as for replacing a bulb – go for your life!

Are incandescent bulbs illegal in Canada?

Ottawa had not, technically, “banned incandescent light bulbs,” but they were prohibited for importation into Canada and manufacture in this country from Jan. 1, 2014. Retailers could still sell them—and most retailers had already stocked up.

What is the oldest light bulb still burning?

The world's longest burning light bulb is located right here in Livermore! It was first installed at the fire department hose cart house on L Street in 1901. 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Is halogen illegal in Australia?

September 2020 Ban On Halogen Lights

You'll be saving money on your energy bill before the mandatory ban even comes into action (In September 2020). The federal government predicts that the switch to LED light can save Australian consumers over $1.48bn in the next 10 years.

Can I still buy old fluorescent tubes?

From September 2023, a variety of fluorescent lamps and halogen capsule lamps will be phased out. As a result of new legislation, this phase-out will mean that these lamps will no longer be manufactured. However, you will still be able to purchase and fit these products while stocks last.

Can you replace fluorescent tubes with LED Australia?

Retrofitting existing fluorescent fixtures with LED tubes is a popular and cost-effective option. There are two main types of LED tubes used for retrofitting: Ballast-compatible LED tubes: These are the easiest to install. They work directly with your existing ballast, eliminating the need for rewiring.

Does anyone still make incandescent light bulbs?

You can't buy incandescent light bulbs anymore. With a few exceptions, the bulbs – patented by Thomas Edison in 1880 and a common fixture in American homes for more than a century – have officially passed into history.

Can you put a LED bulb into an incandescent fixture?

It is absolutely safe to use an LED bulb in a regular fixture, as long as it has the right base and enough space to dissipate heat effectively.

What color LED is most like incandescent?

Warm White (up to 2900K) – This temperature range is similar to the standard incandescent bulb in terms of color tone and warmth. Most people find this range comforting, and LEDs with this color temperature are perfect for family rooms, dining areas and bedrooms.

What is the healthiest light bulb for your eyes?

Traditional incandescent bulbs are fine, but many people are looking for a more energy efficient option. Luckily, “warm light” CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights) are okay for your eyes, as well as being much more efficient. They do emit UV rays, but a much smaller amount. You can also use LED bulbs or halogens.

Are incandescent bulbs safe on a Christmas tree?

Is It Okay to Use Incandescent Lights on a Christmas Tree? Yes, incandescent Christmas lights remain popular for their warm, traditional glow.

Why do incandescent lights look better?

A full and balanced spectrum of visible light

Starting with the visible, incandescent light gives off a naturally full and very pure spectrum. As we know, a full spectrum light usually means a high - or in the case of incandescence, nearly perfect - color rendering index, or CRI, score.

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