20 May 2020
Who does this notice affect?
Import industry
What is happening?
Following industry consultation and further consideration of the impacts on industry, the Australian Government has made the decision not to proceed with the Onshore Biosecurity Levy. An alternative levy will not be explored or progressed.
The department undertook a co-design process with industry to develop a levy model that was practical for industry and the government.
This process highlighted that a levy could not be implemented without significant regulatory impacts on industry and proposed levy payers.
The decision not to proceed with the levy has also been made with consideration of the ongoing impacts of drought, bushfires and COVID-19 on the Australian economy and the rapidly changing trade environment.
This decision will not impact on the overall biosecurity budget or the capacity of Australia’s biosecurity system. Australia’s biosecurity system will continue to be funded through existing arrangements.
The department would like to thank the Onshore Biosecurity Levy Industry Working Group and other stakeholders who provided valuable input and feedback on the levy design.
The department will continue to work with industry and the government to ensure Australia’s biosecurity system manages the risks of pests and diseases now and into the future.
Further Information
More information can be found by contacting Biosecurity Consultation.