8 June 2016
Who does this notice affect?
This notice is for those who will be importing goods into Australia under the new biosecurity legislation.
What has changed?
With the commencement of the new Biosecurity Act 2015 on 16 June 2016, importers are reminded of the need for an import permit prior to the arrival of goods in Australia. If you intend to import goods into Australia you must comply with the new legislation.
All conditionally non-prohibited goods entering Australia must meet specified import conditions and requirements as detailed in the department’s online Biosecurity Import Conditions system BICON. This may include the requirement for an import permit.
You should ensure that permits are applied for well in advance of the expected landing date of the consignment. Failure to do so may result in goods being held at the border for an extended period and in some cases, goods being exported or destroyed.
Applications for import permits are made via BICON. Importers can apply for import permits in advance and post-date if necessary.
Under the Biosecurity Act 2015, the department cannot issue an import permit for goods that have already landed. In the past, the department has facilitated imports that have landed without a permit by allowing importers to apply for a permit. This will no longer be the case.
Importers who land goods without a permit will be required to provide information to the department to enable a biosecurity risk assessment to be undertaken. Where possible, the department will manage the biosecurity risk by reviewing documentation such as competent authority certification (e.g. phytosanitary certificates or veterinary certificates), manufacturer’s statements, by treating the goods or other risk mitigation measures. These requirements will align with the usual import conditions that apply to that particular class of goods.
It should be noted that in some cases, the biosecurity risk will not be able to be managed post arrival. In these cases, the goods will be subject to export or destruction.
The department’s website has dedicated information on the new legislation. You can find this information at The Biosecurity Act 2015.
Further information?
For more information, please visit: The Biosecurity Act 2015 or contact the Biosecurity Implementation Branch at New Biosecurity Legislation or call us on 1800 040 629.