Minimum documentary and import declaration requirements policy

This document defines the minimum documentary and import declaration requirements that must be met when lodging an import declaration to the department to support risk assessment of imported goods, whether for biosecurity purposes or for goods subject to the Imported Food Inspection Scheme.

Version 4 of this policy came into effect on 2 August 2021. Any documents that are relied on to meet import conditions for goods exported to Australia from this date must comply with this policy.

Policy review and change information

Following an announced review and stakeholder engagement, version 4 of the policy was released in 2021. The purpose of this review was to ensure that the policy aligned with legislative requirements, other departmental policies, and import condition requirements. The review of the policy also captured the need to address emerging biosecurity risks.

Key changes to the policy were made. Refer to the policy’s Table of Changes document in the below table for key details on these changes.

A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sheet is also available to assist clients in meeting the revised policy requirements.