Arrangements for vessels invoking sovereign immunity
Under international law, foreign governments are entitled to invoke sovereign immunity on state-owned or operated vessels arriving into Australian territory.
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Essential biosecurity information for military forces
Australia is in a unique position free from many of the animal and plant diseases affecting other countries. The department – in cooperation with other jurisdictions, industry and the community – manages biosecurity onshore, at the border and offshore to minimise the risk of exotic pests and diseases entering the country.
Visiting military
This information will assist foreign military units and personnel visiting and/or exercising in Australia.
Ration packs
During military training exercises, troops are often isolated in remote areas of the Australian wilderness. As they are in direct contact with the environment, and out of biosecurity control, it is important that all foods are fully assessed in advance to eliminate the risk of introducing exotic pests or diseases to our native flora and fauna.
Biosecurity risks are associated with a variety of ingredients in foodstuffs and biological products imported into Australia. This includes foodstuffs brought in for and by military and defence personnel.
Offshore inspections of military equipment
An offshore inspection is not a pre–clearance of biosecurity, but is designed to significantly minimise the biosecurity clearance requirements on arrival in Australia.
Military frequently asked questions
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What happens when I arrive in Australia?
On arrival in Australia you must present an Incoming Passenger Card.
Military cleaning requirements
It is the visiting military's responsibility to ensure that all military equipment arriving in Australian territory is free from biosecurity risk material.
Australian Defence Force
The following guideline provides information and guidance on Australian biosecurity requirements associated with Australian Defence Forces returning to Australia from an overseas mission.
Military
The information on these pages will assist visiting foreign military forces and the Australian Defence Force when entering or returning to Australia.
Arrangements for aircraft invoking sovereign immunity
Under international law, foreign governments are entitled to invoke sovereign immunity on State-owned or operated aircraft arriving into Australian territory. Whenever the claim of sovereign immunity is invoked, biosecurity officers are not permitted to board sovereign immune aircraft to conduct inspections or other official activities.