7 October 2025
Who does this notice affect?
Biosecurity Industry Participant’s (BIP’s) who submit Transhipment of Ship or Aircraft Stores (Ship or Aircraft Stores) or Carnet lodgements and BIPS’s who submit Full Import Declaration (FID’s).
What has changed?
From 7 October, Ship or Aircraft Stores and Carnet lodgements will be processed through the Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS). BIP’s will no longer lodge these entries via the Import Assessment mailbox and department staff will process them through COLS.
BIP’s who submit commercial goods - FID’s will also see a visual change from 7 October as two new consignment import selections will be available in addition to FID’s being; ‘Temporary Importation – Carnet’ and ‘Transhipment of Ship or Aircraft Stores’.
This enhancement delivers on commitments to improve document lodgement process for industry and was developed as part of the Simplified Targeting and Enhanced Processing Systems (STEPS) Program. STEPS is an investment in the department’s imported cargo ICT systems and business processes to enhance Australia's biosecurity risk management by creating a faster, simpler and more integrated cargo clearance system.
Key process changes
- Lodge Ship or Aircraft Stores and Carnet entries through COLS.
- Enter coversheet information into the COLS workflow as the coversheet is no longer required.
- Ability to process payment as an AIMS Account Client or at the time of lodgement via COLS workflow.
- Submit enquiries to the department about your lodgement via COLS.
Support
BIP’s can view the department COLS webpage which has been updated with helpful information and task cards to support the new process.
BIP’s can contact the Client Contact Group on 1800 900 090 for support.