Parents across Australia are being urged to inspect their homes for potentially dangerous magnetic toys after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) uncovered banned products being sold through major online retailers.
The consumer watchdog is investigating toys and games containing small high-powered magnets, including products marketed as “magnetic chess” and “magnetic battle chess”. Authorities warn these items can cause severe, potentially life-threatening injuries if swallowed by children.
The ACCC said it identified sellers offering banned products on major online marketplaces and has requested that listings be removed from platforms including Amazon, eBay, Kogan and Fruugo.
High-powered magnetic toys have been banned in certain products under Australian Consumer Law since 2012 because of the serious risks they pose. If swallowed, multiple magnets can attract each other through internal organs, leading to intestinal blockages, tissue damage, perforations and other critical injuries. The toys also present a choking hazard.
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said the regulator was deeply concerned that banned products were still reaching consumers through online marketplaces.
The ACCC confirmed that Amazon, eBay, Kogan and Fruugo have agreed to remove affected listings and implement additional measures to prevent similar products from being relisted. Kogan, Amazon and Fruugo have also provided, or offered to provide, refunds to customers who purchased the products.
Consumers who have bought the affected toys are being advised to stop using them immediately, keep them away from children and contact the seller to arrange a refund.
Several products containing small high-powered magnets have already been recalled since the investigation began.
Australia also has a mandatory safety standard for magnetic toys, requiring products to be designed so that children cannot access small magnets during normal use.
The ACCC has called on all retailers, both online and in-store, to urgently review their toy ranges and remove any products that may breach safety regulations. Businesses have also been urged to conduct recalls and offer refunds where necessary.
The watchdog said it will continue investigating the sale of banned magnetic products and may take enforcement action against businesses found to be breaking product safety laws.