The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) has issued IAN 08-2021: Commencement of 2021 Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) vessel assessment and seasonal pest inspection measures. DAWE commenced its annual heightened vessel surveillance window for managing the risks posed by Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) on vessels from 01 January 2021. It is expected to conclude on 31 May 2021.
DAWE requests vessel masters and crew of cargo vessels to remain vigilant for AGM and advise them, as soon as possible, of any suspected detections of the insect. Early detection and accurate reporting of pests prior to arrival assists in managing the risk offshore where possible and minimises the level of intervention by the department for vessel arrival.
The Gypsy Moth is likely to enter Australia on vessels and cargo where they commonly settle on vessel hulls and rigging, cargo containers and vehicles.
DAWE has developed a pest alert brochure to assist vessel masters and crew to detect hitchhiking pests of biosecurity concern, such as the Asian Gypsy Moth. The activities of assessment and inspection for such pests are chargeable in accordance with DAWE’s rate guidelines.
Vessel reporting requirements and the Biosecurity Act 2015
DAWE is reminding vessel masters and shipping agents that they are required:
- To read and understand the Biosecurity Status Document (BSD) directions and conditions and keep a copy of the current document on board the vessel for the duration of the voyage in Australia.
- Any changes in circumstances during the voyage in Australian waters, particularly changes to the human health of travelers or reporting pests and diseases, must be submitted via MARS or reported to the MNCC as soon as practicable.
- That a failure to report accurately or comply with a requirement under the Biosecurity Act may result in penalties, including infringement notices, civil penalties or criminal prosecutions.
If you see this AGM pest or any other pest that you think may have hitchhiked to Australia, contain it, where possible and immediately report it directly to DAWE, or simply contact your Customs Broker. In the interests of safety, concerned parties should ask to consult a departmental entomologist before handling specimens.
Contact us with any questions you may have about your import cargo and quarantine issues. As licensed Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders, Colless Young offers correct advice on all your shipping and transport needs. We offer a complete range of logistics services, both air and sea, through all Australian ports and airports, including clearance through customs, as well as exports, warehousing and trucking.
