As of 16 June 2016, the new Biosecurity Act 2015 replaced the existing Quarantine Act 1908.

Under the Quarantine Act 1908, it was possible to apply for an import permit for goods that had already landed in Australia.  However, under the new Act, this is no longer possible.  If an import permit has not been issued prior to arrival of the consignment in Australia, you will not be able to obtain one.

You should ensure that you have applied for a permit well in advance of the expected arrival date of your shipment.  In fact, our advice would be to have the permit on hand prior to departure from the country of origin. Failure to do so may result in your cargo being held under Dept of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR) control for an extended period of time or having to be re-exported or destroyed.  All costs associated with these actions would be for your account.

If your shipment arrives, and no import permit is in place, you will be required to provide DAWR with information which enables them to assess the biosecurity risk.   If they cannot manage any risk post arrival in Australia, measures will be taken to dispose of the cargo.

If you are unsure as to whether or not your particular imported goods require a DAWR permit, please contact our office for advice.