Safeguard inquiries

From 29 September 2026, the Australian Trade Remedies Commission (ATRC) is responsible for conducting Safeguard inquiries.

Visit the ATRC website

The PC is currently conducting its final safeguards inquiry established under previous arrangements into Fabricated structural steel safeguards.

Prior to 29 September 2026, the Productivity Commission (PC) was Australia’s authorised body to undertake inquiries to investigate potential safeguard procedures for Australian industries. 

Safeguard action is temporary action that may be taken where a surge of imports causes or threatens to cause serious injury to a domestic industry. Under Australia’s previous agreement with the World Trade Organisation, Australia could only impose safeguard actions (other than on an interim basis) after a full inquiry by the PC.