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COVID-19 – Audits of establishments preparing and/or storing dairy, eggs, fish and prepared meat products for export – Arrangements and Response (2020-08)

Date of issue: 27 March 2020

Date of effect: 27 March 2020

Purpose

The department has received a number of inquiries about how it is approaching its staffing, regulatory and operational obligations in relation to audits of export establishments and the risks posed by the COVID-19 outbreak.

This notice is to advise that the department is monitoring the rapidly changing circumstances while working to protect staff, clients and on-going access to our international markets.

Food security and agriculture and COVID-19

News and alerts

See the latest updates from the Australian Government (australia.gov.au)

Our agricultural sectors play an important role in Australia's food security. Feeding our nation is an essential service.

We’re making sure there’s food on the table for all Australians.

Products will continue to be delivered to supermarkets. Do not hoard food. Stay calm and know Australian agriculture will be there for you.

46-2020 - Changes to a Human Health Pre-Arrival Question in the Maritime Arrivals Reporting System (MARS)

25 March 2020

Who does this notice affect?

This notice is of interest to all vessel masters and shipping agents who represent international commercial and non-commercial vessels for the purposes of Australian biosecurity clearance.

What has changed?

The department has updated MARS with a revised question in the Human Health section of the pre-arrival report (PAR) and also in the Human Health Update report.

The question (2.1.7) of the human health section of the PAR was:

45-2020 - COVID-19 impact on Cat and Dog imports to Australia

25 March 2020

Who does this notice affect?

This notice is for all airlines, freight forwarders, pet transport companies and importers of cats and dogs to Australia.

What has changed?

COVID-19 impact on Cat and Dog imports to Australia

The department is currently handling an unprecedented number of enquiries due to the impact of COVID-19. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we respond to these enquiries.

European Union: Non-Prescribed Goods: Health Certificate Arrangements During COVID-19 (2020-04)

Date of issue: 24 March 2020

Date of effect: Immediate

Attention:

  • Industries—Industry bodies – AHBIC, AFGC
  • Licensed exporter
  • Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment—Central and Regional offices

Purpose

This Market Access Advice provides information on the recent decision from the European Commission (EC) to accept scanned copies of export certificates in cases where it is not possible to present the original certificate with the consignment.