Illegal tanning beds lead to landmark fine for business

The company was fined in the NSW Local Court after the state's Environment Protection Authority conducted inspections on its two premises in Fairfield and Bondi.

Operating commercial tanning services using UV radiation beds has been illegal in NSW since 2014 and penalties were substantially increased in 2025.

Despite the longstanding ban, EPA executive director Emma Whale said the case was the first of its kind.

"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," Ms Whale said.

Suspicions were raised about the business when evidence of bookings made through online messaging platforms and paid for in cash were found, she said.

The use of UV tanning beds substantially increases the risk of developing skin cancers such as melanoma, with younger users facing an ever higher risk of permanent damage, Ms Whale said.

"People who use a UV tanning bed before 35 years of age have a 75 per cent higher chance of developing melanoma," Ms Whale said.

The prevalence of solariums operating underground has attracted more attention in recent weeks after an ABC investigation found evidence of dozens of illegal operators online.

Advertising UV tanning services is prohibited under radiation laws, but unlawful businesses are continuing to promote their services on social media.

"Our radiation laws are in place for a good reason, which is to protect people's health," Ms Whale said.

"Exposure to UV radiation can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer."

Scrutiny on the industry kicked into overdrive 20 years ago, after the death of 26-year-old Melbourne skin protection advocate Clare Oliver.

All states and territories have bans on commercial UV tanning, except the Northern Territory, where no commercial solaria exist.