Tattoos, body piercing, branding, scarification, dermal anchors and three dimensional art or body modifications such as beading are all forms of body art.
Most people go to established studios who are required by law to work with high standards of infection control to reduce the spread of infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, C and HIV/AIDS. Others may place their health are risk by going to amateurs or cheaper options overseas.
WA establishments are required to notify the local government in which they intend to operate in and must comply with the Health (Skin Penetration Procedures) Regulations 1998 (External link) and Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures. The Regulations and Guidelines outline minimum standards of infection control such as basic hygiene, disinfection and sterilisation requirements.
Before undergoing any form of body art you are encouraged to read the Health body art (PDF 907KB) brochure so you know the right questions to ask your tattooist or piercer, and what to look out for.
Making a complaint
If you have concerns about a particular skin penetration establishment and their level of infection control you are encouraged to raise your concerns with the local government Environmental Health Officer in which the establishment is located. The Environmental Health Officer has the power to inspect the establishment and enforce the Skin Penetration Regulations. Refer to the Western Australia Local Government Authority website (External link)for a list of local government contact details.
Age limit for body piercing, tattooing and branding
The Department for Child Protection (External link)(DCP) is the State Government agency responsible for setting age limits for body piercing, tattooing and branding.
An age limit has been established in legislation for tattooing and branding (18 years of age or with parent or guardian consent). The penalty for tattooing a minor could be as much as $12,000 and includes imprisonment for one year.
New age limits have been established for body piercing. Please contact the Department for Child Protection (External link)for updated information relating to these new age limits.
If you have concerns with an operator piercing a minor please contact the DCP (External link) or refer to their website for up-to-date information on age limits.
Industry guidelines and legislation
Fact sheets
For skin penetration operators
For public
For further information contact the Environmental Health Directorate on (08) 9388 4999 or email ehinfo@health.wa.gov.au
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