BIG W has come under fire over an “illegal” at-home tattoo kit that had been freely available to shoppers of all ages across Australia.
The retail giant’s Beginner Tattoo Kit Set has been on sale for $111 and includes a working tattoo gun, needles and ink so that anyone who purchases it can create real tattoos on themselves or others.
There are a range of strict laws and protocols in Australia’s states and territories regulating the tattooing industry, particularly in regards to health, safety and the practice of tattooing youths under the age of 18.
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In Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, for example, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to be tattooed — even with parental consent — and is considered a criminal offence.
However, BIG W’s at-home tattoo kit had been available with no restrictions in place and no warnings on its website.
7NEWS.com.au understands that the product was uploaded to BIG W’s Market page by a third-party seller in error.
A BIG W spokesperson has told 7NEWS.com.au that the item has now been removed from sale.
“BIG W Market is a marketplace for trusted third-party sellers on the BIG W website,” a spokesperson said.
“The tattoo kit was recently listed on BIG W Market and we acknowledge this product was not categorised correctly.
“We can confirm we have removed it from sale, and no orders have been fulfilled.“
It’s understood BIG W regularly conducts product reviews to evaluate the suitability of products listed so they are compliant with health and safety requirements, and are aligned with BIG W’s brand values.
Before the at-home tattoo kit was taken off the BIG W site, it attracted a slew of scathing reviews.
Many voiced their concern and anger that the retailer was selling the set given the serious health implications.
“This is extremely dangerous! Body mods should be left to professionals, there is a reason there are massive laws and regulations surrounding it,” said one.
“The products, such as the ink in this pack, are not Australian standard and are poisonous. Children (who can not legally consent to a tattoo) can easily buy this and give themselves and their friends blood poisoning.
“This is so disappointing and not safe at all! Studios and artists in Australia need licences to practice for a reason. Council controls this industry for a reason. This will hospitalise you.”
Another noted: “Not good, no age restriction, we’ll have 14-year-olds walking around with ugly tattoos soon.”
A third wrote: “Should not be selling this at all. It encourages untrained people to tattoo themselves or others dangerously. Please remove this product as this can cause serious harm for life.”
One more added: “Someone at BIG W needs to do their research on the legal implications they may be liable for due to the sale of this product.”
Said another: “This is not something that should be sold. It’s dangerous.”
Another reviewer took aim at BIG W for making a “mockery” of tattoo artists across Australia.
“If I could give zero stars, I would. This is atrocious to be supporting,” they said.
“The risk of blood-borne diseases being spread by lack of training. The incorrect disposal of sharps. The mockery of an art form trained professionals use to support their household and families is being taken for a ride.”