Illegal UV Tanning Services in Sydney
A Sydney cosmetic business has been fined $35,300 for operating illegal tanning services using ultra-violet radiation. The Local Court of NSW ordered this enforcement action following a prosecution by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA). F.A. Beauty Pty Ltd, trading as The Tanned Me, was instructed to pay $16,000 in fines and $19,300 in legal fees. The company is required to forfeit all nine of its tanning beds, which were found at its Bondi and Fairfield locations.
The NSW EPA Executive Director of Regulatory Practice and Services, Emma Whale, stated, “This case is the culmination of a long and detailed investigation and the first time we have successfully prosecuted a business for offering UV tanning services.” In November 2023, officers inspected The Tanned Me’s Fairfield salon and found evidence of cash payments and online bookings through messaging platforms. A joint inspection with NSW Police was conducted at the Bondi salon in August 2024.
Strengthened Radiation Laws
In August 2025, the state strengthened its radiation laws, increasing fines for corporations to $10,000 and up to $5,000 for individuals. These changes reflect the serious health risks associated with UV tanning. Emma Whale further explained the health impacts of UV exposure, stating, “Exposure to UV radiation can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer. People who use a UV tanning bed before 35 years of age have a 75% higher chance of developing melanoma.”
The updated laws also prohibit advertising or promoting UV tanning services on social media, a tactic often used by illegal operators. The case against The Tanned Me highlights the commitment to enforcing these regulations to protect public health. The NSW Government’s action demonstrates a decisive step in reducing the risks of skin cancer by imposing stricter regulations on UV tanning services. This serves as a warning to other illegal operators.
Following the investigation, more than $800 in cash was found across both salon locations. The NSW EPA emphasised the importance of these regulations, as they are in place to protect public health. This successful prosecution underscores the potential dangers of UV tanning and the importance of adhering to the state’s strict radiation laws.
