20 August 2018
Who does this notice affect?
Clients in the import and shipping industries—including freight forwarders, importers and customs brokers—associated with importing goods that require increased intervention during the BMSB risk season (shipped between 1 September 2018 and 30 April 2019 inclusive).
What has changed?
To manage the risk posed by BMSB to Australia, the department has finalised the measures for the 2018-19 BMSB risk season for goods shipped to Australia between 1 September and 30 April inclusive. The final measures (including the list of the target goods) is available on the Seasonal Measures for BMSB webpage.
Onshore treatment options of target high risk goods shipped as containerised cargo in sealed six sided containers is now allowed for LCL (less than container load) and FAK (freight of all kind) containers. This is in addition to allowing onshore treatment of FCL (full container load) and FCX (full container consolidated) containers. All containerised cargo in sealed six sided containers may be treated on arrival in Australia provided the treatment is conducted at the container level. Deconsolidation or removal of goods will not be permitted prior to treatment.
The revised policy to allow onshore treatment of all sealed six-sided containerised cargo is based on consultation with peak industry bodies. The department notes that industry prefer to have both onshore and offshore treatment options.
Importers should note this revised policy is expected to result in increased clearance delays at the border due to identification of treated and non-treated containerised cargo, and limited onshore capacity of storage facilities at approved arrangement sites and onshore treatment provider premises.
To minimise clearance delays, industry are encouraged to have their target risk goods treated offshore and at container level, where possible. Cargo reports and Full Import Declarations (FIDs) should be lodged accurately and as early as possible to assist with identifying and assessing these containers.
More information of the measures including import and treatment requirements is available on the Seasonal Measures for BMSB webpage.
Industry information sessions
The department will conduct further information sessions in preparation for the 2018-19 BMSB season. These sessions will clarify any questions industry may have on the final measures. You can find out more information and register for these sessions.
Information sessions will be held in:
| Sydney | Tuesday 21 August | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm |
| Brisbane | Thursday 23 August | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm |
| Webinar | Thursday 23 August | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm |
| Melbourne | Friday 24 August | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm |
Further information
For further information regarding BMSB measures, visit the Seasonal Measures for BMSB webpage or contact Air and Sea Cargo.