3 June 2021
Who does this notice affect?
Clients in the import and shipping industries – including freight forwarders, importers, and customs brokers – associated with imported goods and containers.
What has changed?
In 2019, the department initiated a review of the Minimum documentary and import declaration requirements policy. The policy was reviewed to ensure it reflected current business practices, legislative requirements and that it was sufficient to address emerging biosecurity risks. The review was conducted in consultation with industry and has resulted in a number of amendments being made to the policy.
We understand that industry will need time to adjust to the new requirements of the policy. As such, we have published the revised policy on our website.
Visit Minimum documentary and import declaration requirements policy to view:
- the updated policy
- table outlining key changes to assist industry members to gain an understanding of the new requirements
The revised policy requirements will take effect on Monday, 2 August 2021. Documentation for goods exported to Australia on or after this date must meet the revised policy requirements.
To assist clients in meeting the revised requirements of the policy, we have also updated our Acceptable documentation templates webpage. The templates are now available to be downloaded and can be adapted to meet individual company/consignment requirements.
What do industry members need to do?
To minimise any possible delays to the clearance of goods, industry members are urged to familiarise themselves with the revised policy requirements. This includes educating their supply chains on the minimum documentary requirements the department expects under the policy to assist with assessing the level of biosecurity risk relating to imported goods.
Biosecurity Industry Participants operating under class 19.1 and 19.2 approved arrangements must comply with the revised policy requirements when assessing documentation and lodging import declarations in the Integrated cargo system (ICS) or their third-party software.
Further information
For further information regarding the revised Minimum documentary and import declarations requirements policy, please visit the department’s website or email entrymanagement@awe.gov.au.