The new Biosecurity Act starts on June 16, and while some goods now need an import permit others become exempt. From this month an import permit will no longer be required for used machinery, used equipment and used parts in accordance with the commencement of the new ‘Biosecurity Act 2015’. If you import these goods on or after 16 June, a permit will no longer be required. (Prior to that date, importers will require an import permit for them under the old Quarantine act). The aim of this new arrangement is to reduce costs and the regulatory burden to importers.
The new legislation replaces the old Quarantine Proclamation 1998. Certain goods will not require an import permit if importers can meet the conditions specified in Australian Biosecurity Import Conditions (BICON) as an alternative to requiring an import permit. Goods affected include selected plant products, fresh produce, animal feed, peat, machinery and tyres, as detailed in the table (see link below).
For more information, go to: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/legislation/new-biosecurity-legislation
