Before you import goods to Australia
The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is responsible for managing the pest and disease risks associated with goods, containers, aircraft and ships arriving in Australia.
Before you import goods to Australia, it is important that you understand your responsibilities as an importer and the import conditions that may apply to your goods. Complying with these requirements can reduce costly delays and help keep biosecurity risks offshore.
Read the department’s guide to the importing process.
What can I import?
Conditions for goods allowed into Australia are regulated by the department. You can find out if your goods can be imported using the Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON).
The conditions relating to your goods may vary depending on the country of export or origin of the goods.
Special conditions apply to imports into Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Norfolk Island. Please contact External Territories for more information.
Imported foods are also monitored for compliance to the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
Import information on the following goods is also available:
- biological products
- fertiliser
- live animals and reproductive materials
- major resource and energy sector imports
- military equipment, vehicles and ration packs
- motor vehicles, motorcycles, machinery and tyres
- plants and plant products
- timber, wooden articles, bamboo and related products
- vessels with timber components.
Fees and charges
Fees and charges apply to the import and clearance of goods.
Penalties for not complying
Import conditions and imported food standards are set under legislation administered by the department.
Failure to comply with this legislation in a criminal manner can result in large fines or imprisonment.
Department of Home Affairs
Goods arriving in Australia must also be declared to the Department of Home Affairs. Check their website for information on clearing goods through the border.
Customs Brokers
First time or infrequent importers are encouraged to use the services of a licensed customs broker. To find a customs broker, search online or in your local Yellow Pages.