NTC Conducts Major Review of the Australian Dangerous Goods Code

The National Transport Commission (NTC) is conducting the first comprehensive review of the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code in over 15 years. The ADG Code provides national requirements for the classification, packaging, labelling and transport of dangerous goods by road and rail, and this update aims to reflect current industry practices and regulatory needs.

This review could impact how DG compliance is interpreted and applied in future, and operators should stay informed to ensure their training, documentation and transport practices remain aligned with evolving national standards.

Key takeaways:•

• The ADG Code is the national standard for the transport of dangerous goods in Australia and has not been reviewed comprehensively for 15+ years.

• The review has involved consultation papers, a draft update and feedback sessions from industry and regulators.

• Proposed changes are intended to improve safety, address gaps, and align the Code with international best practice and current transport risks.

• The review also includes integrating explosives transport provisions (relevant to Class 1 transport).

• Final recommendations are being prepared for Transport Ministers following consultation phases.

🔗 Read the full NTC project page on the Dangerous Goods Code review.