1 October 2026
Who does this notice affect?
This notice applies to stakeholders who operate within the biosecurity framework, including vessel masters and operators of aircraft, freight forwarders, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents, master consolidators, Biosecurity Entry Points (airport and seaport operators), and members of the public.
What has changed?
Following the Import Industry Advice Notice (Ref. No. 162-2026) issued on 25 September 2026, stakeholders are advised that the following biosecurity legislative instruments are now in effect, having commenced on Thursday, 1 October 2026:
- Biosecurity Regulations 2026
- Biosecurity (Movements between Parts of Australian Territory) Declaration 2026
- Biosecurity (Exposed Conveyances Exempt from Biosecurity Control) Determination 2026
- Biosecurity (Reportable Biosecurity Incidents) Determination 2026
These instruments form part of the regulatory framework supporting the administration of the Biosecurity Act 2015. They set out requirements and arrangements that support the management of biosecurity risks associated with goods, conveyances and people entering, leaving or moving within Australian territory.
The new instruments replace the corresponding instruments made in 2016, which have now ceased to have effect following their scheduled sunsetting on 1 October 2026. Stakeholder feedback, including feedback received through public consultation, informed the development of the new instruments.
Stakeholders are encouraged to review the instruments relevant to their operations and ensure they understand any obligations and requirements that may apply to them.
Further information
A Statements of Changes outlining the key changes reflected in the new instruments is available on the department's legislation webpage. Please contact biosecuritylegislationfeedback@aff.gov.au for further information.