16 June 2016
Who does this notice affect?
This notice is for those who are interested in the progress of the new biosecurity legislation.
What has changed?
The Australian Government, through the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, advises that as of today, 16 June 2016, the Biosecurity Act replaces Quarantine Act, as the primary piece of commonwealth biosecurity legislation in Australia.
The Biosecurity Act has been developed in consultation with industry, agricultural stakeholders, state and territory governments, environmental groups, health professionals, international trading partners and the general public.
If you have any questions regarding how to operate under the Biosecurity Act, please contact the Biosecurity Implementation Branch or call 1800 040 629.
The Biosecurity Act 2015 and supporting instruments can be viewed on the Federal Register of Legislation (formerly ComLaw) website.
Importers, brokers, port operators and those involved in transport or supply chain logistics are advised to make sure they understand the legislation including changes that may affect your industry.
In some defined areas, the legislation makes provision for a transition period to allow businesses time to become compliant with new requirements.
For information on transitional arrangements, please refer to the department’s website or the Biosecurity (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Act 2015.
The department’s website has dedicated information on the new legislation.
Extensive updates have been made to the department’s website to reflect the Biosecurity Act 2015. As a result, you may need to update any personal bookmarks in your browser. If you require assistance to locate specific information on the website please contact 1800 040 629.
Further information?
For more information, please visit: Biosecurity Legislation or contact the Biosecurity Implementation Branch or call us on 1800 040 629.