19 June 2026
Who does this notice affect?
Clients who lodge Unaccompanied Personal Effect entries (UPEs) with the department without using a registered customs broker.
What has changed?
The department is enhancing the experience for clients who lodge import documentation for UPEs through the Import Assessment mailbox.
This enhancement delivers on commitments to improve document lodgement processes 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.
Under the current process, lodgements for these clients are sent directly to the Importassessment@aff.gov.au. Commencing 8 July 2026, these UPE lodgements will be processed online through the department’s existing system, the Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS). These UPE clients will access COLS via the DAFF website to lodge import documentation.
A further notice will be published in the lead up to 8 July with department website links to provide information and support materials to enable clients to follow the new process.
Benefits
- The coversheet is no longer required as information will now be captured directly through the COLS workflow.
- Payments will be processed at the time of lodgement via the COLS workflow.
- Enquiries about lodgements can be submitted to the department via COLS.
- Clients can self-serve and track their status via COLS, reducing the need for calls or emails.
About the new process
Similar to other entry types lodged in COLS for Biosecurity clearance, these UPE clients will select the consignment type, enter carrier and consignment information, provide contact information and upload import documentation. Please note, there will be no change to the current process of lodging a UPE statement (B534 or B615) into the Australian Border Force Integrated Cargo System or in person to ABF prior to biosecurity assessment.
Further information
For any questions or queries contact the department at STEPSChangeSupport@aff.gov.au.