The updated AS/NZS 4308:2023 urine drug testing standard introduces important changes to testing, reporting and compliance. While organisations have until November 2026 to transition, KINNECT is moving early to ensure clarity, consistency and best practice for our clients.
The 2023 standard replaces AS/NZS 4308:2008 and is now in a formal three-year transition period. During this time, both standards remain valid. After November 2026, the 2008 standard will be fully withdrawn.
Why KINNECT is transitioning early
KINNECT completed the transition to AS/NZS 4308:2023 on 31 March 2026, well ahead of the national deadline.
By transitioning early, we’re removing uncertainty for our clients and minimising the risk of reporting inconsistencies.
Early adoption also ensures clients benefit from best practice as soon as possible, rather than managing multiple standards in parallel.
Key changes you should be aware of
The updated standard includes several changes that may affect how results are detected, reported and interpreted:
Updated drug cut-off levels:
Cocaine metabolite: screening cut-off reduced from 300 µg/L to 150 µg/L; confirmatory cut-off reduced from 150 µg/L to 100 µg/L.
Benzodiazepines: screening cut-off unchanged; confirmatory cut-off reduced from 200 µg/L to 100 µg/L.
Additional drug classes now have updated confirmatory cut-offs and reporting criteria.
Terminology update: “Non-negative” results are now referred to as “Not-negative”.
Stronger informed consent requirements to enhance legal defensibility and clarity for employers and workers.
Expanded laboratory reporting:
Laboratories may now report parent or metabolite drugs detected below threshold when another drug exceeds the threshold, supporting clearer result interpretation.
What stays the same
The collection process itself does not change, ensuring continuity in how urine drug testing is conducted onsite.
What KINNECT is doing
To support compliance and client confidence, KINNECT is:
Using verified devices compliant with AS/NZS 4308:2023
Participating in national quality control programs
Ensuring all collectors complete comprehensive training
Updating the chain-of-custody documentation to reflect the new standard
What your organisation should do next
We recommend reviewing your internal policies and procedures to ensure they align with AS/NZS 4308:2023, including:
Updating references from the 2008 to the 2023 standard
Reflecting new drug cut-off levels
Updating policy language to align with new terminology and reporting requirements
If you have questions or want to understand what this update means for your organisation, speak with your KINNECT Account Manager.