This month's update covers two important product recalls, increased WorkSafe activity across the manufacturing sector and new developments around sponsored access to Australian Standards.
We also wrap up 20 years in test and tag with our biggest EOFY offers on test and tag equipment.
Product recall update: Vacuum cleaners and power banks
Two models of Mistral Barrel Cyclonic Vacuum Cleaners sold nationally through Bunnings have been recalled due to a manufacturing defect.
The affected models are:
- BVC160 – 1800W
- BVC165 – 2400W
The vacuum motor may overheat during use, creating a risk of serious burns and property damage if it catches fire. Reported warning signs have included abnormal noises, unpleasant smells and smoke coming from the vacuum cleaner.
The affected products were sold between 28 July 2025 and 26 May 2026.
Anyone with an affected vacuum cleaner should stop using it immediately, disconnect it from the power supply and return it to any Bunnings store for a full refund.
Check the full Mistral vacuum recall notice.
Cygnett power bank recall expanded
The recall for the Cygnett MagSlim 5K Power Bank, originally published in April, has also been updated to include additional affected batch numbers. Battery swelling may cause the casing to separate, overheat or catch fire.
The sale period has now been extended to include affected products sold between 16 December 2025 and 20 April 2026.
For anyone testing electrical equipment in the workplace, it's important to remember that passing an electrical safety test does not override an active product recall.
Check the updated Cygnett power bank recall.
Free access to Australian Standards: What we know so far
Last month, we discussed the Federal Budget's impact on the test and tag industry. One of the more important parts was the proposal to improve public access to Australian Standards referenced in legislation.
The Government committed $42.7 million over four years from 2026–27 for Standards Australia to provide free access to standards referenced in Commonwealth, state and territory legislation.
This could potentially cover important electrical safety standards such as AS/NZS 3760 and AS/NZS 3012, although we will need to wait for the final details.
Standards Australia is referring to the program as "sponsored access", meaning the cost of access would be covered rather than paid directly by the user.
However, the proposed model does not appear likely to follow the New Zealand system, where eligible standards can be accessed as free PDF downloads.
At this stage, it appears to involve free read-only access. through an online platform. This may mean users can view the standards online, but cannot download, print or conveniently access them offline.
Free access would still be a significant improvement. However, a restricted online reader may be less practical for businesses that regularly need to consult standards while working, training staff or developing procedures.
The new arrangements are not yet operating, and the exact list of included standards and access conditions has not been released.
Standards Australia is currently inviting people to register their interest to be notified when sponsored access becomes available.
CGT changes softened for small businesses
After concerns from small businesses, the government has softened part of its proposed capital gains tax changes by increasing the threshold for small business, from $2 million to $10 million.
For most small test and tag operators, this may not change much, especially if they were already under the previous $2 million threshold. However, it could be relevant for larger operators or growing businesses who may sell the business or dispose of eligible business assets.
The broader CGT reforms are still proposed to apply from 1 July 2027, so business owners should speak with their accountant or tax adviser before making decisions based on proposed changes.
Misleading course claims highlight the need to choose training providers carefully
The importance of choosing a reputable accredited training provider is back in the spotlight after Express Online Training was found to have misled consumers about its RSA and White Card courses.
Following action by the ACCC, the Court found that claims including “Same Day Interim Certificate” and “Pay Only When You Pass” gave consumers the wrong impression about what the courses involved and when payment was required.
Consumers were led to believe they could complete the relevant course and receive certification on the same day. However, after completing an initial questionnaire and making payment, they were still required to complete further assessment tasks that could not always be booked that day.
The ACCC’s investigation also found that a significant number of consumers who paid did not ultimately complete their course.
While the case did not involve test and tag training, it is an important reminder that not all accredited training is delivered to the same standard.
What to check before enrolling
Anyone comparing test and tag courses should look beyond price and course length and check:
- how the training is delivered
- whether practical skills are properly taught and assessed
- what students must do to be found competent
- whether the provider clearly explains the full course and assessment process
Be cautious of courses that appear to be little more than a quick tick-box exercise or make gaining a qualification sound automatic.
The warning was reinforced in a separate case in Western Australia, where a high-risk work licence assessor had their accreditation cancelled for serious assessment breaches. As a result, 73 workers had their licences cancelled and must complete the required training and assessment again.
Accredited training should involve genuine learning and assessment - not just the fastest possible path to a certificate.
WorkSafe targets Dandenong manufacturing businesses
WorkSafe Victoria is increasing its focus on manufacturing businesses in Dandenong and surrounding areas.
The campaign was established in October 2025 after data showed that approximately one in every ten Victorian manufacturing fatalities and injuries occurred in the 3175 postcode.
With results being released in May this year, inspectors have completed 341 visits across 225 manufacturing workplaces and issued 272 improvement notices.
WorkSafe inspectors will continue visiting businesses across the area, supported by education programs and opportunities for manufacturers to receive tailored workplace safety advice.
Although electrical testing is not the specific focus of the campaign, manufacturing businesses should use the increased attention as a prompt to review their wider safety systems. This includes the inspection, maintenance and testing of electrical tools and equipment used throughout workshops, warehouses and production areas.
Celebrating 20 years with our biggest EOFY offers
For 20 years, we have supported Australian's with test and tag training, equipment and practical advice.
To celebrate the milestone, Appliance Testing Supplies has launched a major EOFY promotion across selected PAT testers, print kits, accessories and electrical test tags. There are deals available to suit a range of budgets and testing requirements.
Current offers include:
- Free bonus packs valued at up to $279 with selected PAT testers
- EOFY pricing across a range of appliance testers, test tags, printers and accessories
With 20 years of experience behind us, our team can also help you compare the options and choose equipment suited to the work you actually do.
The EOFY offers are available for a limited time and finish at the end of June.
