What changed in 2024
From 1 July 2024, it became illegal across Australia to manufacture, supply, process or install engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs. The ban was introduced because cutting engineered stone releases very high levels of crystalline silica dust, which has caused silicosis in stonemasons.
A lot of people still search for Caesarstone, Smartstone or quartz benchtops, because those names became shorthand for a stone benchtop. If that's what you were planning, you have good options.
Your options now
| If you wanted… | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A plain white or grey benchtop | Porcelain or sintered stone | The same even colour and low upkeep, no sealing |
| A marble-look benchtop | Marble-look porcelain | Bold veining, including through the edge, without marble's care |
| A thick, chunky island | Sintered stone or mitred porcelain | Mitred edges give a 40–60 mm look |
| Something natural and durable | Granite or quartzite | Natural stone, not covered by the ban |
| The real thing | Marble | Natural stone with its own character |
Already have engineered stone?
You don't need to remove it. The ban doesn't apply to benchtops already in your home. If you're renovating, though, cutting or modifying existing engineered stone is tightly controlled. If you're replacing it, the old benchtop should be removed by someone who follows the safety rules. See benchtop replacement.
Comparing costs
Porcelain and sintered stone are usually priced a little above where engineered stone used to sit. Granite can be similar or cheaper. Our price guide has current Adelaide ranges.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still buy Caesarstone in Adelaide?
Is quartz banned in Australia?
What if I already have engineered stone benchtops?
What looks most like Caesarstone?
Are you affiliated with Caesarstone?
Ready for new benchtops?
Send your sizes or plans and get a written, itemised quote from a local Adelaide fabricator.