Why every new washing machine sold in Australia is about to change forever after the tragic death of a child

Australians shopping for a new washing machine will soon see extra safety features added under new national rules introduced after the tragic death of a child – though households will not be forced to replace existing appliances. 

A child died in February 2021 in Christchurch, New Zealand, after being found unresponsive in a front-loading washing machine that had been turned on.

The death was not treated as suspicious.

Experts have previously warned about the dangers of front-loading washing machines to curious small children who may climb inside to explore.

Once inside, a child may become trapped and suffocate, or an adult could inadvertently start a cycle, unaware of their presence.

As a result, Standards Australia has revised its policies and announced a new mandatory safety standard for washing machines, effective from July this year. 

The change means washing machines must now feature a dual-action switch mechanism to stop children from accidentally activating them. 

‘This means that starting a washing machine cycle requires two deliberate actions, intended to make it significantly harder for children to turn on the machine unintentionally,’ Standards Australia said during its announcement.

‘The goal is to prevent scenarios where a child could become trapped inside or start the machine while inside, a measure that aims to enhance overall safety.’

While the update to standards was introduced in 2024, the grace period to ensure washing machines comply ends in mid-2026.

Any new washing machine sold in Australia must have the dual-action safety standard.

For those worried about the cost of changing their washing machine, Bing Lee Electrics’ Peter Harris told Nine News the switch would be accessible for Australians.

‘There’s definitely a chance for shoppers to save money, depending on how good we are with our sales and supply chain,’ he said.

Australia was the first country to implement the process, but CHOICE deputy director of campaigns and communications Andy Kelly said businesses need to be more accountable in testing their products.

‘Australia’s product safety regime remains reactive,’ he said.

‘We’re calling on the government to introduce a general safety provision in the Australian Consumer Law.

‘This would impose a duty on businesses to ensure the products they sell are safe before they’re sold. Strong penalties for non-compliance would incentivise businesses to be more proactive about product safety.’