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Department of Climate Change, Energy, Enviroment and Water

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. Biosecurity and trade
  3. Import
  4. Arrival of goods in Australia
  5. Approved arrangements
  6. Conditions for operating approved arrangements

Sidebar first - Import

  • Approved arrangements
    • Automatic Entry Processing (AEP)
    • Applying for an approved arrangement
    • Third party assessors
    • Changes and variation to an approved arrangement
    • Suspending or revoking an approved arrangement
    • Variations, changes, suspensions and revocations to class 19 approved arrangements
    • Fit and proper person test
    • Approved arrangements general policies
    • Approved arrangements glossary
    • Imported biologicals
      • Responsibilities of AA site where imported biologicals are used in vivo
      • Where to get a QAP/in-vivo application form
    • Conditions for operating approved arrangements
      • Compliance classifications for class 19 approved arrangements
      • Approved commodities and related information for class 19.2 AEPCOMM approved arrangement
      • Broad spectrum disinfectants and sanitisers for use in approved arrangements
    • Sites operating under an approved arrangement
    • Training and accreditation for approved arrangements

Conditions for operating approved arrangements

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has set conditions for how activities can be performed under an approved arrangement. Some conditions are specific to the class of approved arrangement you are operating and some apply across multiple arrangement classes.

The class of your approved arrangements is based on the:

  • type of activities taking place in the arrangement
  • associated biosecurity risks.

Class specific conditions

Approved arrangement sites used for the deconsolidation of sea and air cargo, inspection and treatment of goods, containers and Universal Loading Devices (ULDs).

1.1 - Sea and air freight depot (unrestricted)

Approved arrangement sites approved for initial non-containerised machinery inspections, rural container inspections, external container inspections and the storage, inspection or treatment of incorrectly certified agricultural products from Khapra beetle countries.

Note; to be able to conduct rural container inspection a certified sea container inspection stand must be available on site. The stand must be suitable for the types of containers being inspected and be certified according to the standards in the department’s Standards for Sea Freight Container Inspection Stands available on the department’s website.

Applicants entering into a class 1.1 approved arrangement must provide container stand certification as part of their application. Applications not accompanied by container stand certification will be unable to be approved.

Documents File size
AA for sea and air freight depot (unrestricted) - conditions PDF 545 KB
AA for sea and air freight depot (unrestricted) - conditions DOCX 391 KB

1.2 - Air cargo terminal

Approved arrangement sites used for the deconsolidation of air cargo, inspection and treatment of goods, containers and ULDs that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for air cargo terminals - requirements PDF 924 KB
AA for air cargo terminals - requirements DOCX 389 KB

1.3 - Sea and air freight depot (restricted)

Approved arrangement sites utilised for the deconsolidation of sea and air cargo, including personal and household effects. These sites can be approved for containerised machinery inspections and the fumigation and cleaning of goods subject to biosecurity control.

Note; to be able to conduct external container inspections (including rural tailgate inspections) at a class 1.3 approved arrangement an applicant must hold approval for class 4.3 – cleaning (minimum wash pad size 16 meters x 5 meters), additionally a certified sea container inspection stand must be available on site.

The sea container stand must be suitable for the types of containers being inspected and be certified according to the standards in the department’s Standards for Sea Freight Container Inspection Stands available on the department’s website.

Where applicants applying for a class 1.3 approved arrangement elect to include rural tailgate inspection, the applicant must provide container stand certification as part of their application. Applications that include rural tailgate inspection but which are not accompanied by container stand certification will be unable to be approved.

Documents File size
AA for sea and air freight depot (restricted) - conditions PDF 659 KB
AA for sea and air freight depot (restricted) - conditions DOCX 394 KB

Biosecurity Risk Material Record

Instructions for completing the Biosecurity risk material (BRM) record

The BRM record must be completed by an Accredited Person when bark, soil or animal/plant/insect contamination is found in imported containers and/or on timber packaging/dunnage. The BRM record must be maintained at the AA site.

The contamination must be dealt with according to the AA class 1.1 and 1.3 requirements.

Example of BRM record

See description below.

Example 1 (line 1): An FCL consignment of goods was found to contain grain on the container floor and bark was present on the timber packaging. The timber packaging was marked with an ISPM 15 compliant stamp.

Example 2 (lines 2 and 3): A container was opened and a dead animal was found inside the container. The doors were closed immediately and the department was notified. After a departmental officer had removed the dead animal from the container the goods were unpacked. Bark was found on the timber packaging on one of three LCL consignments within the container. The timber packaging was not marked with an ISPM 15 compliant stamp.

Documents File size
Biosecurity risk material record PDF 257 KB
Biosecurity risk material record DOCX 67 KB

Approved arrangement sites used for the deconsolidation, handling, storage, inspection or examination and treatment of cargo and containers subject to biosecurity control.

Class 2 revision

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has revised the approved arrangement conditions for classes 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, and 2.6.

Biosecurity industry participants who have an approved arrangement with these classes at 22 December 2021 will be issued with a notice of intention to vary their approved arrangement to incorporate the changes to the conditions. The notice will provide the details of the conditions changes and will outline the variation process for the approved arrangement.

The existing and revised versions of the approved arrangement conditions for classes 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, and 2.6 are provided below.

From 22 December 2021, the revised version of each class conditions document will apply to any application for a new or varied approved arrangement involving class 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, or 2.6.

For existing biosecurity industry participants with a class 2 in their approved arrangement who have received a notice from the department to vary their approved arrangement, please complete and return the Application for an approved arrangement with updated class conditions form to aa.canberra@awe.gov.au ensuring to provide any information required within the relevant class conditions, including a site plan.

Downloads

Application for an approved arrangement with updated class conditions (PDF 312 KB)
Application for an approved arrangement with updated class conditions (DOCX 88 KB)

If you have difficulty accessing these files, visit web accessibility for assistance.

2.1 - Non-agricultural products

Approved arrangement sites used for the deconsolidation, handling, storage, inspection and treatment of certain goods and equipment that are subject to biosecurity control.

Existing conditions
Documents File size
AA for non-agricultural products - conditions Version 4.0 PDF 491 KB
AA for non-agricultural products - conditions Version 4.0 DOCX 432 KB
Revised conditions
Documents File size
AA for non-agricultural products - conditions Version 5.0 PDF 491 KB
AA for non-agricultural products - conditions Version 5.0 DOCX 432 KB

2.2 - Agricultural products

Approved arrangement sites used for the deconsolidation, storage and inspection of goods that are subject to biosecurity control, but are processed or packaged in such a way as to preclude the possibility of external contamination.

Existing conditions
Documents File size
AA for agricultural products - conditions Version 5.0 PDF 469 KB
AA for agricultural products - conditions Version 5.0 DOCX 397 KB
Revised conditions
Documents File size
AA for agricultural products - conditions Version 6.0 PDF 469 KB
AA for agricultural products - conditions Version 6.0 DOCX 397 KB

2.3 - Bulk stockfeed/fertiliser

Approved arrangement sites used for the receival, storage, inspection and treatment of bulk commodities such as fertiliser and stockfeed that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for bulk stockfeed/fertiliser - requirements PDF 889 KB
AA for bulk stockfeed/fertiliser - requirements DOCX 381 KB

2.4 - Fresh produce, nursery stock and cut flowers

Approved arrangement site utilised for the deconsolidation, handling, storage, inspection and treatment of fresh fruit and vegetables, cut flowers (including foliage which forms part of the consignment) and nursery stock (excluding tissue cultures) that are subject to biosecurity control.

Existing conditions
Documents File size
AA for Fresh produce, nursery stock and cut flowers Version 2.0 PDF 1.1 MB
AA for Fresh produce, nursery stock and cut flowers Version 2.0 DOCX 390 KB
Revised conditions
Documents File size
AA for Fresh produce, nursery stock and cut flowers Version 3.0 PDF 1.1 MB
AA for Fresh produce, nursery stock and cut flowers Version 3.0 DOCX 390 KB

2.41 - Verification of packaging for airfreight perishables

Approved arrangement site utilised for the verification of consignment packaging for airfreight perishables and securing of airfreight perishable consignments for transport from the Cargo Terminal Operators (CTO) premises to the inspection point.

Notes:

  • Packaging verification is an activity that can be conducted by a departmental officer or by a biosecurity industry participant operating under this arrangement.
  • Biosecurity directions requiring packaging verification are only issued to a CTO site that holds approval for AA class 1.2 – Air cargo terminals.
  • The biosecurity industry participant for the class 1.2 AA site and the class 2.41 arrangement do not need to be the same entity.
  • For further information regarding the types of airfreight perishables that require packaging verification, refer to the departments Biosecurity Import Conditions system.
Documents File size
AA for verification of packaging for airfreight perishables PDF 880 KB
AA for verification of packaging for airfreight perishables DOCX 384 KB

2.5 - Temperature controlled storage

Approved arrangement sites used for the receipt, storage, and inspection of commodities that have temperature controlled storage requirements, and for those that require cold temperature treatments.

Documents File size
AA for temperature controlled storage - requirements PDF 515 KB
AA for temperature controlled storage - requirements DOCX 380 KB
2.5.1 - Temperature controlled storage of specified baitfish

Approved arrangement sites used for the receival, storage, inspection and thawing of specified baitfish that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for temperature controlled storage of specified baitfish - requirements PDF 893 KB
AA for temperature controlled storage of specified baitfish - requirements DOCX 378 KB
Baitfish discrepancy form PDF 238 KB
Baitfish discrepancy form DOCX 81 KB
2.5.2 - Temperature controlled storage of imported pig meat

Approved arrangement sites used to undertake temperature controlled storage and handling of imported pig meat that is subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for temperature controlled storage of imported pig meat - requirements PDF 917 KB
AA for temperature controlled storage of imported pig meat - requirements DOCX 381 KB
Example of reconciliation of goods form PDF 19 KB
Example of reconciliation of goods form DOCX 20 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form PDF 133 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form DOCX 38 KB
Pig meat completion notification form PDF 102 KB
Pig meat completion notification form DOCX XY KB

2.6 - Empty shipping container parks

Approved arrangement sites used for the handling, storage, internal examination and treatment of empty shipping containers that are subject to biosecurity control.

Existing conditions
Documents File size
AA for empty shipping container parks - requirements Version 4.0 PDF 954 KB
AA for empty shipping container parks - requirements Version 4.0 DOCX 385 KB
Revised conditions
Documents File size
AA for empty shipping container parks - requirements Version 5.0 PDF 954 KB
AA for empty shipping container parks - requirements Version 5.0 DOCX 385 KB

2.7 – Grain storage

Approved arrangement (AA) sites utilised for the storage and handling of bulk imported grain commodities such as maize, wheat, barley, and sorghum.

Applications for approval for a class 2.7 must be accompanied by endorsement of the proposed site location issued by the department’s Plant Import Operations branch. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete. Before applying for a class 2. AA, requests for assessment of the proposed site location must be submitted to imports.

Documents including guidelines and templates referenced in the AA conditions and with which biosecurity industry participants must comply, and general information on the department’s regulation of imported grain can be found on the department’s imported whole grain website.

Once you have received the required approvals from Plant Import Operations please contact Approved Arrangement for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for imported grain storage - conditions PDF 840 KB
AA for imported grain storage - conditions DOCX 395 KB

Applications for approval for a class 2.7 must be accompanied by endorsement of the proposed site location issued by the department’s Plant Import Operations branch. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete. Requests for assessment of the proposed site location must be submitted to imports.

Documents including guidelines and templates referenced in the AA conditions and with which biosecurity industry participants must comply, and general information on the department’s regulation of imported grain can be found on the department’s imported whole grain website.

2.8 – Temporary storage of containerised refrigerated pig meat

Approved arrangement sites used for the temporary storage of refrigerated containers holding imported pig meat that is subject to biosecurity control, prior to movement to a class 2.5.2 or 3.2 AA site.

Documents File size
AA for temporary storage of containerised refrigerated pig meat - requirements PDF 420 KB
AA for temporary storage of containerised refrigerated pig meat - requirements DOCX 390 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form PDF 411 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form DOCX 49 KB
Pig meat completion notification form PDF 102 KB
Pig meat completion notification form DOCX 49 KB

Approved arrangement (AA) sites used for general cargo, agricultural products, bulk commodities, and imported grain facilities that are subject to biosecurity control, where treatment and processing is undertaken.

3.0 – Processing

AA sites used for the receipt, storage, inspection and processing of goods subject to biosecurity control. Examples of goods which may be processed at class 3.0 AA site include plant, animal or microbial derived ingredients for use in processing for human consumption, pet food, aquaculture or stock feed, hides for tanning, hunting trophies for taxidermy (tanneries), wool for scouring, bagged nuts, seeds or grain, fresh produce.

Before applying for AA class 3.0, an applicant must obtain:

  1. endorsement of the proposed site location from the department’s Plant Division and/or Animal Division (see contact details below), and
  2. a biosecurity risk assessment from the department’s Plant Division and/or Animal Division (see contact details below).

Notes:

  • Where goods are subject to processing to manage plant only risks (e.g. bagged nuts, seeds or grains, fresh produce), contact Plant Division only to obtain site location endorsement and a biosecurity risk assessment by completing the ‘processing questionnaire for imported plant material’.
  • Where goods are subject to processing to manage plant and animal risks (e.g. plant, animal or microbial derived ingredients used in pet food, aquaculture or stockfeed), contact both Animal Division and Plant Division to obtain site location endorsement and a biosecurity risk assessment. To determine whether the goods subject to processing contain animal and/or plant risks, refer to BICON.
  • An applicant does not need to obtain endorsement of the site location or a biosecurity risk assessment from Animal Division for animal derived material/ingredients, having no other plant risks, imported for processing into products having a human consumption or human therapeutic end-use, or hides for tanning, hunting trophies for taxidermy or wool for scouring.

Contacts:

  • Animal Division – imports@awe.gov.au. In your email to Animal Division, include ‘Attention Animal & Biological Import Branch – Risk assessment for Class 3.0 AA application’ in the subject line
  • Plant Division – imports@awe.gov.au. In your email to Plant Division, include ‘Attention: Plant tier 2’ in the subject line.

Applicants must provide (a) endorsement of the proposed AA site location and (b) the completed biosecurity risk assessment as part of their application, unless specified above as not required. Applications not accompanied by these will be unable to be approved.

Once you have Plant Division and/or Animal Division endorsement of the proposed AA site location and a biosecurity risk assessment, contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for produce processing - requirements PDF 898 KB
AA for produce processing - requirements DOCX 379 KB
Revised AA conditions for processing – version 4.0 PDF 877 KB
Revised AA conditions for processing – version 4.0 DOCX 2.3 MB

Note: In August 2020, the department will contact biosecurity industry participants of existing class 3.0 approved arrangement sites and provide information regarding the changes to AA class 3.0 and process to transition their arrangements to include version 4.0 of the class 3.0 conditions.

All new class 3.0 applications are subject to compliance with version 4.0 of the class 3.0 conditions.

3.1 – Grain processing

Approved arrangement (AA) sites utilised for the processing of bulk imported grain commodities such as maize, wheat, barley, and sorghum.

Applications for approval for a class 3.1 must be accompanied by endorsement of the proposed site location issued by the department’s Plant Import Operations branch. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Before applying for a class 3.1 AA, requests for assessment of the proposed site location must be submitted to imports.

Documents including guidelines and templates referenced in the AA conditions and with which biosecurity industry participants must comply, and general information on the department’s regulation of imported grain can be found on the department’s imported whole grain website.

Once you have received the required approvals from Plant Import Operations please contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for imported grain processing - conditions PDF 970 KB
AA for imported grain processing - conditions DOCX 372 KB

3.2 – Imported pig meat processing

Approved arrangement sites used for the handling, storage, transport and processing of imported uncooked pig meat that is subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for imported pig meat processing - requirements PDF 917 KB
AA for imported pig meat processing - requirements DOCX 390 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form PDF 133 KB
Imported pig meat discrepancy notification form DOCX 38 KB
Pig meat completion notification form PDF 102 KB
Pig meat completion notification form DOCX 99 KB

3.3 – Imported uncooked prawn product processing

AA sites utilised for the processing of imported uncooked prawn product.

Documents File size
AA for imported uncooked prawn processing - requirements PDF 440 KB
AA for imported uncooked prawn processing - requirements DOCX 392 KB

3.4 – Imported salmon product processing

AA sites utilised for the processing of imported uncooked salmon product.

Documents File size
AA for imported salmon processing - conditions PDF 1.1 MB
AA for imported salmon processing - conditions DOCX 676 KB

Approved arrangement sites used for the treatment and or cleaning of goods, containers and packaging that is subject to biosecurity control.

Note: The use of class 4.7 sites is limited only to the secure unpack of containers subject to treatment to manage seasonal hitchhiker biosecurity pests.

4.1 – Heat treatment site

Approved arrangement sites used where the heat treatment of goods, containers and packaging that are subject to biosecurity control is undertaken

Documents File size
AA for heat treatments - requirements PDF 905 KB
AA for heat treatments - requirements DOCX 386 KB
Revised AA conditions for heat treatments – conditions Version 3.1 PDF 905 KB
Revised AA conditions for heat treatments – conditions Version 3.1 DOCX 386 KB

Note: Biosecurity industry participants approved under AA class 4.1 at 6 September 2019 will be subject to a notice of intent to vary arrangement conditions. These BIPs will be provided a period within which compliance with AA Class 4.1 VERSION 3.1 must be achieved.

All new class 4.1 applications will be assessed against version 3.1.

4.2 – Gamma irradiation

Approved arrangement sites used for gamma irradiation treatment of goods and packaging that is subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for gamma irradiation - requirements PDF 501 KB
AA for gamma irradiation - requirements DOCX 378 KB

4.3 – Cleaning

Approved arrangement sites used for the cleaning of goods, containers and packaging, e.g. washing of cars that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for cleaning - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for cleaning - requirements DOCX 396 KB

4.4 – Seed cleaning

Approved arrangement sites used for the performance of cleaning seeds that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for seed cleaning - requirements PDF 888 KB
AA for seed cleaning - requirements DOCX 376 KB

4.6 – Fumigation

Approved arrangement sites used where the fumigation of goods, containers and packaging that are subject to biosecurity control is undertaken.

Documents File size
AA for fumigation - requirements PDF 848 KB
AA for fumigation - requirements DOCX 390 KB

Further information

  • Methyl bromide fumigation methodology
  • Guide to performing QPS fumigation
  • Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation methodology

4.7 – Secure unpack for treatment of seasonal hitchhiker biosecurity pests

Approved arrangement sites used where containers subject to biosecurity seasonal risk measures require unpack within a secure environment for the purpose of rectifying issues preventing treatment at the container level.

Documents File size
AA for secure unpack for treatment of seasonal hitchhiker biosecurity pests - conditions PDF 1.0 MB
AA for secure unpack for treatment of seasonal hitchhiker biosecurity pests - conditions DOCX 676 KB

Further information

  • Heat treatment methodology
  • Methyl bromide fumigation methodology
  • Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation methodology

AA sites used for research, analysis and/or testing of imported biological material including micro-organisms, animal and human products and soil. This type of site includes microbiological facilities, animal facilities and plant laboratories, whether integral or separate to the site. Where applicable, class 5 conditions should be read in conjunction with the appropriate Australian/New Zealand Standard as listed in individual classes.

Biosecurity containment level 1

AA sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control of low hazard where standard safe containment practice is adequate to address biosecurity risk.

Documents File size
AA for BC1 facilities Requirements Version 1.1 PDF 1.0 MB
AA for BC1 facilities Requirements Version 1.1 DOCX 478 KB
AA for BC1 Informative Text Version 1.0 PDF 1.0 MB
AA for BC1 Informative Text Version 1.0 DOCX 432 KB

The published document has been prepared by the department. Some components of this document do not fully comply with Australian Government accessibility guidelines. If you have any problems using this document please contact the department.

Biosecurity containment level 2

Biosecurity containment level 2 conditions apply to approved arrangement sites housing biosecurity goods that pose a moderate biosecurity risk. A low to moderate economic impact would result to people, the community, or environment should the goods (including live organisms) escape and spread outside the approved arrangement site.

Biosecurity Containment Level 2 (BC2) review

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has updated conditions for AA classes 5.2, 7.2, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7 and where applicable class 6.1 by incorporating them into the revised AA BC2 class 5, covering microbiological, animal, aquatic, plant and invertebrate sites.

From 18 January 2021, all AAs with classes 5.2, 7.2, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7 and where applicable class 6.1 will be audited, when due, against the new BC2 conditions.

Existing approvals (approved before 17 January 2021)

Class 5.2 (AA for biosecurity containment level 2 – requirements), 7.2, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7 and where applicable class 6.1 sites will continue to operate under the relevant class conditions as listed on the department website, up until the time of the transition audit.

During the transition audits, AA sites will be audited against the revised BC2 conditions. Where non-compliance/s are identified against the revised BC2 conditions, Non-Rated Corrective Action Request/s will be issued, with a negotiated timeframe for rectification.

Where non-compliance is identified for class/es 5.2, 7.2, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7 and where applicable class 6.1, in the period prior to the transition audit, a Corrective Action Request will be issued as per the AA General Policies.

After the transition audit, the BC2 site will operate under the Approved arrangement - Biosecurity containment level 2 (BC2) Conditions and any other arrangement as approved by the department.

Existing AA sites without Third Party Assessment (TPA) certification

For AA sites which do not have a current TPA as required under the new class conditions, the department will contact the biosecurity industry participants from those sites to explain the process to ensure their continued approval.

Existing AA sites with TPA certification

These TPA certificates remain current and valid provided the site has maintained Level 2 containment approval from the time of certificate issue to time of transition audit.

New approvals (approved on or after 18 January 2021)

From 18 January 2021 revised BC2 conditions will be applied for new approvals, and pre-approval audits will take place as per the AA General Policies.

Facilities applying for BC2 approval, that have been or are currently being assessed by a TPA, will have the assessed conditions remain valid throughout the application process, provided no more than 12 months have passed between certification and application.

Transition period

Transition audits will be conducted over the course of 2021. Biosecurity industry participants will be contacted directly by Audit and Assurance Group to schedule these audits.

Documents File size
Approved arrangement – Biosecurity containment level 2 (BC2) Conditions PDF 1.5 MB
Approved arrangement – Biosecurity containment level 2 (BC2) Conditions DOCX 2.5 MB
Approved arrangement – Biosecurity containment level 2 (BC2) Informative Text PDF 4.2 MB
Approved arrangement – Biosecurity containment level 2 (BC2) Informative Text DOCX 6.1 MB
AA for biosecurity containment level 2 - requirements PDF 1.0 MB
AA for biosecurity containment level 2 - requirements DOCX 372 KB

5.3 – Biosecurity containment level 3

AA sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control which pose significant risks to animals, plants or humans if pest or disease associated with them spread outside the AA site and from which significant economic impact would result in the community or environment.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity containment level 3 - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for biosecurity containment level 3 - requirements DOCX 410 KB

5.4 – Biosecurity containment level 4

AA sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control which pose serious life-threatening risks to animals, plants or humans if pests or disease associated with them spread outside the AA site and from which substantial economic impact would result to people, the community or environment.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity containment level 4 - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for biosecurity containment level 4 - requirements DOCX 407 KB

Containment AA sites multiple room approval

This document outlines the requirements for determining when AA sites undertaking biosecurity containment using multiple rooms or laboratories can be approved as a single AA site.

Documents File size
Containment facilities multiple room approval PDF 870 KB
Containment facilities multiple room approval DOCX 638 KB

Transfers between co-located AA sites checklists

These checklist are required whenever transporting goods that are subject to biosecurity control between co-located AA sites.

Documents File size
Driver checklist PDF 369 KB
Driver checklist DOCX 58 KB
Accredited Person checklist PDF 371 KB
Accredited Person checklist DOCX 58 KB

Approved arrangement sites used for the post entry quarantine (PEQ) of nursery stock such as aquatic plants, bulbs, seed lines, cuttings and other medium risk nursery stock are handled.

6.1 – Medium risk nursery stock

Approved arrangement sites used for nursery stock that is subject to biosecurity control in plant houses, glasshouses, polyhouses, igloos or tunnel houses, etc (excludes screen houses).

Documents File size
AA for medium risk nursery stock - requirements PDF 878 KB
AA for medium risk nursery stock - requirements DOCX 380 KB

6.7 – Plant Process Management System

A class 6.7 approved arrangement is a single class approved arrangement for managing the biosecurity risk associated with the growth of restricted seed and plant material in post-entry quarantine (PEQ). The biosecurity activities under a 6.7 approved arrangement are required to be carried out at one or more approved arrangement sites under other (e.g. existing) arrangements held by the same entity which have classes appropriate for restricted and high risk plant material.

Contact Plant Import Operations at imports for more information on how to apply for a class 6.7 approved arrangement.

6.11 – Bulbs

Approved arrangement sites used for bulbs that are subject to biosecurity control in open areas.

Documents File size
AA for bulbs - requirements PDF 892 KB
AA for bulbs - requirements DOCX 382 KB
AA for bulbs - information PDF 920 KB
AA for bulbs - Information DOCX 3.7 MB
Movement of bulbs to another AA site form PDF 376 KB
Movement of bulbs to another AA site form DOCX 234 KB
Request for release of certified bulbs form PDF 448 KB
Request for release of certified bulbs form DOCX 199 KB

Approved arrangement sites used for holding imported animals. Where applicable, class 7 requirements should be read in conjunction with the appropriate Australian/New Zealand Standard as listed in individual classes.

7.1 – Aquarium fish

Approved arrangement site used for holding live fresh water and marine ornamental fin fish that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for aquarium fish - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for aquarium fish - requirements DOCX 397 KB

7.2 – Biosecurity insectary containment level 2

AA sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control which present a moderate hazard to facility personnel or to the environment.

Biosecurity containment level 2 conditions now apply for approved arrangement sites housing biosecurity goods that pose a moderate biosecurity risk.

Applications for this class are no longer being accepted, please refer to class specific conditions for class 5, Biosecurity containment level 2.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 2 - requirements PDF 943 KB
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 2 - requirements DOCX 383 KB

7.3 – Biosecurity insectary containment level 3

Approved arrangement sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control which pose significant risks to animals, plants or humans if pest or disease associated with them spread outside the site and from which significant economic impact would result in the community or environment.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 3 - requirements PDF 981 KB
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 3 - requirements DOCX 387 KB

7.4 – Biosecurity insectary containment level 4

Approved arrangement sites used for goods subject to biosecurity control which pose significant risks to animals, plants or humans if the insect, pest or disease associated with them spread outside the site and from which significant economic impact would result in the community or environment.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 4 - requirements PDF 975 KB
AA for biosecurity insectary containment level 4 - requirements DOCX 387 KB

7.5 – Laboratory rodents

Approved arrangement sites used for the purpose of holding live laboratory rodents that are subject to biosecurity control.

Biosecurity containment level 2 conditions now apply for approved arrangement sites housing biosecurity goods that pose a moderate biosecurity risk.

Applications for this class are no longer being accepted, please refer to class specific conditions for class 5, Biosecurity containment level 2.

Documents File size
AA for laboratory rodents - requirements PDF 886 KB
AA for laboratory rodents - requirements DOCX 376 KB

7.6 – Laboratory xenopus

Approved arrangement sites used for the purpose of holding live laboratory xenopus that are subject to biosecurity control.

Biosecurity containment level 2 conditions now apply for approved arrangement sites housing biosecurity goods that pose a moderate biosecurity risk.

Applications for this class are no longer being accepted, please refer to class specific conditions for class 5, Biosecurity containment level 2.

Documents File size
AA for laboratory xenopus - requirements PDF 888 KB
AA for laboratory xenopus - requirements DOCX 376 KB

7.7 – Laboratory fish

Approved arrangement sites used for the purpose of holding live laboratory fish that are subject to biosecurity control.

Biosecurity containment level 2 conditions now apply for approved arrangement sites housing biosecurity goods that pose a moderate biosecurity risk.

Applications for this class are no longer being accepted, please refer to class specific conditions for class 5, Biosecurity containment level 2.

Documents File size
AA for laboratory fish - requirements PDF 931 KB
AA for laboratory fish - requirements DOCX 382 KB

7.8 – Defence and Police dogs

Approved arrangement sites used for the purpose of holding Defence and Police dogs that are subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
AA for Defence and Police dogs - requirements PDF 742 KB
AA for Defence and Police dogs - requirements DOCX 681 KB
AA for Defence and Police dogs - information PDF 926 KB
AA for Defence and Police dogs - information DOCX 401 KB
Daily monitoring sheet PDF 244 KB
Daily monitoring sheet DOCX 41 KB
Veterinary examination form PDF 227 KB
Veterinary examination form DOCX 41 KB

Nominated veterinary hospital reference

This reference details the requirements for nominated veterinary hospitals when providing veterinary care for Defence and Police dogs subject to biosecurity control.

Documents File size
Nominated veterinary hospitals - assessment guide PDF 712 KB
Nominated veterinary hospitals - assessment guide DOCX 663 KB

7.9 – Zoo animals

Approved arrangement sites used for the isolation, examination and testing of live imported zoo animals as required by import permit conditions.

Initial approval

The initial approval process described below applies when a zoo importer doesn’t have an approved:

  • facility/enclosure onsite that’s previously been approved for the import of animals
  • arrangement reference number issued by the department.

Due to the generic nature of the class 7.9 requirements, applicants seeking approval under this class will need to:

  • identify the species for which an import permit will be sought
  • have an area to be used for the post-arrival quarantine of the imported animals identified
  • submit a post-arrival quarantine procedures manual for the proposed species for assessment
  • be ready for an onsite audit.

It is not uncommon for zoos to operate a single multi-use/species enclosure. Applicants should advise at the time of applying that the enclosure is to be used for subsequent imports of different species. By providing this information upfront, the importer may decrease the level of audit required through subsequent site assessments for different species. This will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

New applications and subsequent import requests for approval for a class 7.9 must be accompanied by a post-arrival quarantine procedures manual for the proposed species that is approved by regional Veterinary Exports and Meat Group (VEMG). Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Please contact your regional VEMG team at:

  • QLD Agriculture - Live Animal Imports
    QldLiveAnimalImports@agriculture.gov.au
  • Sydney/NSW/ACT:
    VEMG_VeterinarServicesAllCentralEast@agriculture.gov.au
  • Melbourne/VIC
    seanimal@agriculture.gov.au
  • Perth/Adelaide/WA/SA
    VEMG_VeterinaryServicesAllWest@agriculture.gov.au

Once you have received the required approvals from Live Animal Imports Program you may contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Once the approved arrangement is approved, the import permit may be issued and the proposed import can then occur.

Post approval

The post-approval process described below applies after an imported animal has completed its post-arrival quarantine period.

Once the imported species has completed the required post-arrival quarantine period, the approved arrangement approval can be suspended to indicate that the site is no longer required for biosecurity control. By doing this, the site won’t be subject to additional, ongoing audits.

To suspend the approval, the biosecurity industry participant is required to notify Approved Arrangements that the post-arrival quarantine period has ended, provide a copy of the release record and request a voluntary suspension. Following notification, the approved arrangement will be suspended until the biosecurity industry participant requests for the suspension to be lifted.

The request to lift the suspension can be made any time prior to the next import, however a minimum of 15 working days’ notice is required.

Failure to request a voluntary suspension at the end of post-arrival quarantine period will result in the department scheduling audits to ensure compliance with approved arrangement requirements.

Additional requirements for subsequent imports

The requirements for subsequent imports described below applies when a zoo importer:

  • has previously imported animals into an approved arrangement site and has decided to import again
  • does have an approved arrangement reference number issued by the department.

Due to the broad scope of species eligible for importation and the associated variation in structures required to ensure containment of each species, for the importation of each subsequent species, applicants will need to:

  • apply for a specific import permit
  • provide their approved arrangement reference number
  • provide regional VEMG an amended procedures manual detailing the specific post-arrival quarantine procedures for that species
  • provide to regional VEMG details of the area to be used for the post-arrival quarantine of the animals
  • be ready for an onsite audit.

Once the amended procedures manual is endorsed by the regional VEMG team contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Documents File size
AA for zoo animals - requirements PDF 942 KB
AA for zoo animals - requirements DOCX 382 KB

7.10 – Fertile poultry hatching eggs

Approved arrangement sites used for the holding of fertile poultry hatching eggs and the resultant stock that are subject to biosecurity control.

Applications for approval for a class 7.10 must be accompanied by a site operations manual/standard operating procedure that is approved by the Horse, Livestock and Bird Imports Program and meets current import permit and biosecurity risk management requirements. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Before applying for a class 7.10 approved arrangement, requests for assessment of the site operations manual/standard operating procedure must be submitted to imports.

Once you have received the required approvals from Horse, Livestock and Bird Imports Program please contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for fertile poultry hatching eggs - requirements PDF 908 KB
AA for fertile poultry hatching eggs - requirements DOCX 380 KB

The published document has been prepared by the department. Some components of this document do not fully comply with Australian Government accessibility guidelines. If you have any problems using this document, please contact Approved Arrangements.

7.11 – Commercial rabbits

Approved arrangement sites used to undertake the isolation, examination, treatment and testing of imported live commercial rabbits as required by Import Permit conditions.

Applications for approval for a class 7.11 must be accompanied by a site operations manual/standard operating procedure that is approved by the department's Live Animal Imports Program in Canberra. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Before applying for a class 7.11 approved arrangement, requests for assessment of the site operations manual/standard operating procedure must be submitted to imports.

Once you have received the required approvals from Live Animal Imports Program please contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for commercial rabbits - requirements PDF 990 KB
AA for commercial rabbits - requirements DOCX 388 KB

7.12 – Live horses

Approved arrangement sites used to undertake the isolation, examination and treatment of live imported horses as required by Import Permit conditions.

Applications for approval for a class 7.12 must be accompanied by a site operations manual/standard operating procedure that is approved by the department's Live Animal Imports Program in Canberra. Applications that do not provide this information will be considered incomplete.

Before applying for a class 7.12 approved arrangement, requests for assessment of the site operations manual/standard operating procedure must be submitted to imports.

Once you have received the required approvals from Live Animal Imports Program please contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply.

Documents File size
AA for live horse - conditions PDF 1.12 MB
AA for live horse - conditions DOCX 412 KB

Approved arrangement sites used for the disposal of biosecurity waste.

8.1 – Incineration

Approved arrangement sites used for the incineration of biosecurity waste to irreducible ash.

Documents File size
AA for incineration - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for incineration - requirements DOCX 396 KB

8.2 – Deep burial

Approved arrangement sites used for the deep burial of biosecurity waste.

Documents File size
AA for deep burial - requirements PDF 1.0 MB
AA for deep burial - requirements DOCX 388 KB

8.3 – Autoclave

Approved arrangement sites used for the autoclave treatment of biosecurity waste.

Documents File size
AA for autoclave - requirements PDF 1.1 MB
AA for autoclave - requirements DOCX 404 KB

8.4 – Other treatments for biosecurity waste

Contact Approved Arrangements for more information on how to apply for a class 8.4 approved arrangement.

Approved arrangement sites used for the management of biosecurity waste. Previously compliance agreements.

10.2 – Biosecurity waste collection

Approved arrangement sites used for the collection of biosecurity waste.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity waste collection - requirements PDF 872 KB
AA for biosecurity waste collection - requirements DOCX 373 KB

10.5 – Biosecurity waste storage

Approved arrangement sites used for the storage of biosecurity waste.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity waste storage - requirements PDF 866 KB
AA for biosecurity waste storage - requirements DOCX 372 KB

10.6 – Biosecurity waste transport

Approved arrangement sites used for the transportation of biosecurity waste.

Documents File size
AA for biosecurity waste transport - requirements PDF 879 KB
AA for biosecurity waste transport - requirements DOCX 374 KB

AA sites used for the management of containers. Previously compliance agreements.

11.2 – External container treatment

AA utilised for the removal of external contamination from imported shipping containers leaving the port, including the domestic conveyance used to move the container.

Documents File size
AA for external container treatments - requirements PDF 823 KB
AA for external container treatments - requirements DOCX 371 KB

Class 12 treatment arrangements authorise the treatment of goods subject to biosecurity control at an approved arrangement site, under a biosecurity direction from the department. Biosecurity directions for fumigation or heat treatment are only issued for AA sites that hold a specific class of arrangement.

Directions for:

  • methyl bromide fumigation (class 12.1) or sulfuryl fluoride fumigation (class 12.2) are issued primarily for performance at AA site holding approval for class 4.6 – fumigation
  • heat treatment (class 12.3) are issued for performance at an AA site holding approval for class 4.1 – heat treatment site.

Notes:

  • The biosecurity industry participant for the class 4.6 or 4.1 AA site and the class 12 arrangement do not need to be the same entity.
  • Some consignments will need action performed to make them suitable for treatment. This action could involve re-arranging cartons/packages in the container to create air space or the slashing or removal of plastic wrapping.
  • For brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) treatment, holding a class 12 arrangement alone does not allow a department approved treatment provider to carry out in-container action to make the consignment suitable for treatment, as referenced in the following Industry Advice Notices (IANs):
    • for fumigation, refer to IAN 147-2020 - Streamlined brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) fumigation arrangements available
    • for heat treatment, refer to IAN 146-2020 - Enhanced brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) heat treatment arrangements
  • To undertake in-container remedial actions to make consignments suitable for BMSB treatment, additional specific conditions need to added to a treatment provider’s class 12 approved arrangement. These conditions are provided in the above IANs.
  • Treatment providers applying for a class 12 approved arrangement and who want the ability to undertake in-container action for BMSB treatment must indicate this in their application for an approved arrangement. Applicants should state ‘BMSB in-container remedial action’ in their application. Biosecurity industry participants with existing class 12 arrangements may also apply to vary their approved arrangement to add this activity.

12.1 – methyl bromide fumigation

Approved arrangement that authorises accredited fumigators to perform onshore methyl bromide fumigation treatment on goods subject to biosecurity control, under the direction of the department.

Documents File size
AA for methyl bromide fumigation - requirements PDF 870 KB
AA for methyl bromide fumigation - requirements DOCX 375 KB

Further information:

  • Methyl bromide fumigation methodology
  • Guide to performing QPS fumigation with methyl bromide
  • Methyl bromide fumigation certificate template
  • Record of methyl bromide fumigation template
  • Record of methyl bromide fumigation for perishables template
Note: scroll past the BMSB documents to access the templates for non-BMSB fumigations.

12.2 – sulfuryl fluoride fumigation

Approved arrangement that authorises accredited fumigators to perform onshore sulfuryl fluoride fumigation treatment on goods subject to biosecurity control, under the direction of the department.

Documents File size
AA for sulfuryl fluoride fumigation - requirements PDF 526 KB
AA for sulfuryl fluoride fumigation - requirements DOCX 377 KB

Further information:

  • Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation methodology
  • BMSB sulfuryl fluoride fumigation certificate – third party approved program – template
  • BMSB sulfuryl fluoride fumigation certificate – template
  • How to complete a BMSB sulfuryl fluoride fumigation certificate
  • BMSB record of sulfuryl fluoride fumigation – imperial – template
  • BMSB record of sulfuryl fluoride fumigation – metric – template

12.3 – heat treatment

Approved arrangement that authorises the performance of heat treatment on goods subject to biosecurity control, under the direction of the department.

Documents File size
AA for heat treatment - requirements PDF 526 KB
AA for heat treatment - requirements DOCX 377 KB

Further information:

  • Heat treatment methodology
  • BMSB Record of heat treatment – template

13.1 – Second conveyances

AA for the management of the receipt of goods and persons onto second conveyances (installations and petroleum industry vessels).

Documents File size
AA for second conveyances PDF 907 KB
AA for second conveyances DOCX 385 KB
Request to arrive and/or unload goods form 204 KB

Approved arrangements that authorise a biosecurity industry participant to carry out specified biosecurity activities on goods subject to biosecurity control.

14.4 – rural tailgate inspection

Approved arrangement that authorises the performance of rural tailgate inspections on imported containers that are destined for unpack in a rural area.

Notes:

  • Rural tailgate inspection is an activity that can be conducted by a biosecurity officer or by a biosecurity industry participant operating under class 14.4.
  • Rural tailgate inspections performed under class 14.4 are restricted to certain container types. Please refer to the ‘Scope’ section of the class 14.4 conditions document.
  • Biosecurity directions requiring rural tailgate inspection under class 14.4 are only issued to a class 14.4 approved arrangement site.
  • The site must be operated by the biosecurity industry participant performing the rural tailgate inspection. Performing rural tailgate inspections at a third-party  site is not permitted.
  • The site must hold approval for either class 1.1 - Sea and air freight depot (unrestricted) or 1.3 - Sea and air freight depot (restricted) with a wash bay approved under class 4.3 – cleaning.
  • Wash bay size must be a minimum 16 metres by 5 metres and container inspection facilitates are required.
  • Biosecurity industry participants may utilise container inspection stands/platforms approved for use by the department. Please refer to the ‘Site requirements’ section of the class 14.4 conditions document.
  • The department’s Rural tailgate container inspection record that is referenced in the class 14.4 conditions document is provided below.
Documents File size
AA for rural tailgate inspection PDF 862 KB
AA for rural tailgate inspection DOCX 230 KB
Rural tailgate container inspection record PDF 2.60 MB

Arrangements that enable accredited persons to assess documents for clearance of non-commodity concerns for containerised sea freight and specified commodity groups.

A compliance guide is available to provide accredited persons and biosecurity industry participants with details of how to remain compliant with broker approved arrangements conditions.

19.1 – Non-commodity for containerised cargo clearance

Arrangement for performing and reporting on non-commodity statements and documentary assessments for FCL, FCX and LCL sea-freight consignments, unpack location postcode assessment of FCL and FCX sea-freight consignments and the direction of these consignments to sites operating under an approved arrangement.

Documents File size
Requirements and conditions for approved arrangement class 19.1: non-commodity for containerised cargo clearance PDF 603 KB
Requirements and conditions for approved arrangement class 19.1: non-commodity for containerised cargo clearance DOCX 504 KB

19.2 – Automatic entry processing for commodities

The arrangement enables accredited persons to assess documentation for commodities in-scope of the arrangement.

Documents File size
Requirements and conditions for approved arrangement class 19.2: automatic entry processing for commodities PDF 415 KB
Requirements and conditions for approved arrangement class 19.2: automatic entry processing for commodities DOCX 325 KB

43.1 – Disinsection treatments

Approved arrangement (AA) for the treatment of international aircraft by disinsection.

A contract of services must be provided to the department if the biosecurity industry participant (BIP) is intending to use a third party to perform their disinsection treatments on its behalf.

Where an applicant/BIP uses more than one third party to complete a disinsection treatment on its behalf, a contract of services must be completed with each treatment provider, and a completed copy must be emailed to both Approved Arrangements and arrivals@agriculture.gov.au for records.

Note:

  • The BIP is not relieved of any of the obligations under this AA because it has contracted a third party to perform their disinsection treatments. This means the BIP is responsible for ensuring compliance with these requirements by any third party, including the third party's employees, contractors, or personnel.
  • The BIP requires notifying both Approved Arrangements and arrivals@agriculture.gov.au where any changes are made to a contract of services, including adding or removing a third party treatment provider.
  • The AA declarant, manager or site contact must advise the department at least 15 business days prior to the proposed date of any changes to your AA.
Documents File size
AA for disinsection treatments PDF 551 KB
AA for disinsection treatments DOCX 380 KB
Contract of services PDF 151 KB
Contract of services DOCX 33 KB

Further information

Please contact the department for more information on these classes and requirements.

If you have difficulty accessing these files, visit web accessibility for assistance.

Contacts

Call 1800 900 090

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Last updated: 08 August 2022

© Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.