FTA / APSA Biosecurity Report 2025/30 - sponsored by WiseTech Academy

Welcome to the Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Biosecurity Report, your one-stop update on the latest operational issues and notices issued by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). This report is designed to keep you informed and prepared to manage biosecurity compliance effectively in an ever-changing landscape.

This Week's Summary

Here are the key developments for this week:

• AusTreat BMSB Information Sessions Now Open 
  DAFF has launched industry information sessions for the 2025–26 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season as part of its annual AusTreat initiative. These sessions will outline key updates for offshore pre-border treatment providers and related stakeholders ahead of the 2025–26 risk season.
  Topics to be covered include:
       > Methyl Bromide Fumigation Methodology v3.0
       > AusTreat registration requirements and approved treatments for BMSB
       > DAFF's compliance verification activities for 2025–26 and observations from                      the 2024–25 season
       > Treatment certificate lodgement portal updates and best practice tips
  Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions at the end of each session.
  Session options:
       > Tuesday 12 August 2025 at 5:00pm AEST (9:00am CEST / 3:00pm SGT/CST/PHT)
       > Thursday 14 August 2025 at 7:00am AEST (2:00pm PDT / 5:00pm EDT Wednesday 13 August)
  Participants must register in advance to secure a place. These sessions are aimed primarily at offshore BMSB treatment providers, but Australian stakeholders may find the content relevant for operational readiness. Read more HERE.

• Reminder: New Contact Email for Class 19 Approved Arrangements 
  As outlined in previous Import Industry Advice Notice 208-2025, there is now a single point of contact for all approved arrangement class 19 enquiries. The department's new email address is: class19@aff.gov.au.
  This mailbox has replaced: AEPsupport@aff.gov.au and AEP.arrangements@aff.gov.au, and respond to email enquiries regarding: 
  > registrations, variations, and cancellations for approved arrangement class 19 (approved arrangement managers and accredited persons)
  > fees and charges relating to approved arrangement class 19
  > the approved arrangement class 19 Learnhub tenancy
  > Continued Biosecurity Competency (CBC) training requirements
  > general enquiries or issues relating to approved arrangement class 19 and the Highly Compliant Importer (HCI) scheme
  > AEPCOMM BICON accounts.
  Important: emails sent to the AEPsupport@aff.gov.au and AEP.arrangements@aff.gov.au will no longer be automatically forwarded. Please ensure you update your contact information with the new class19@aff.gov.au mailbox so emails do not go unanswered. Read more HERE.

• Expansion of SAC Air Cargo Compliance Verification (ACCV)
  DAFF is expanding its Air Cargo Compliance Verification program for Self-Assessed Clearances (SAC), increasing coverage across low-value airfreight consignments. The department will implement the expansion in phases, commencing late August 2025. The department will be contacting impacted SAC reporters at each phase to promote an understanding of the requirements for ACCV inspections. The change aims to provide greater oversight of SAC declarations and improved risk profiling. The program aims to enhance detection of undeclared risk goods while facilitating trade for compliant consignments. Read more HERE.

• Survey Closing Soon – Imported Cargo Inspection Scheduling (8 August Deadline)
  DAFF's survey on how imported cargo inspections are scheduled will close on Thursday 8 August. The initiative is aimed at identifying inefficiencies and improving transparency across booking and resource allocation systems. Customs brokers, importers, and depots are encouraged to provide input based on recent experience. DAFF has indicated that feedback will inform potential reforms to enhance consistency and responsiveness in the scheduling process. Responses submitted by the 8 August deadline will directly contribute to shaping future changes. Read more HERE.

• Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) Outbreak – Italy
  On 23 June 2025, DAFF was notified of an outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Italy. Following a risk assessment, the department has revised the date from which Italy is no longer considered LSD-free to 6 March 2025 (previously 25 April 2025). As a result, Italy has been removed from Australia's LSD-free country list and the list of countries approved for bovine fluids and tissues.
  This change affects imports of dairy products (excluding cheese, lactose and chocolate) for human consumption, bovine fluids and tissues for laboratory research, bovine-derived petfood, stockfeed and veterinary therapeutics, and bovine reproductive material from Italy. A separate industry advice notice will be issued for dairy.
  DAFF will contact individual import permit holders to advise of any changes to their permits. Goods already in transit will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be cleared if the biosecurity risk can be managed.
  For any clearance issues, importers are encouraged to contact imports@aff.gov.au. Further updates, including trade impacts and information on LSD, will be made available via the department's website. Read more HERE.

• Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) Situation – San Marino
  On 23 June 2025, DAFF was notified of an outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Italy. Due to San Marino's geographic proximity and unique operating context, the department has determined that San Marino should no longer be considered free from LSD, effective from 6 March 2025.
  As a result, San Marino has been removed from Australia's LSD-free country list and the list of countries approved for bovine fluids and tissues. This impacts imports of dairy products (excluding cheese, lactose and chocolate) for human consumption, laboratory goods containing bovine fluids or tissues, and veterinary therapeutics derived from bovine material sourced, manufactured or exported from San Marino.
  Import permit holders for affected goods will be contacted by DAFF to amend permits. Goods currently in transit will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be released if the biosecurity risk can be managed.
  For further information or clearance issues, importers should contact imports@aff.gov.au or call 1800 900 090. Updates will be published on the department's website as available. Read more HERE.

• Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) Vaccination Program – Switzerland
  On 19 July 2025, the Swiss Government commenced vaccination of cattle against Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) as a precautionary measure in response to outbreaks in neighbouring France and Italy. As a result, DAFF no longer recognises Switzerland as free from LSD without vaccination and has removed it from the LSD-free country list and the list of countries approved for bovine fluids and tissues.
  This change affects imports of certain dairy products (excluding cheese, lactose and chocolate for human consumption), laboratory goods containing bovine fluids or tissues, bovine reproductive material, and veterinary therapeutics derived from bovine material sourced, manufactured or exported from Switzerland.
  DAFF will contact affected import permit holders to amend existing permits. A separate industry advice notice (IIAN 214-2025) has been published regarding changes to import conditions for dairy products. Goods currently in transit will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be cleared if the biosecurity risk can be managed.
  For further assistance, importers should contact imports@aff.gov.au or phone 1800 900 090. Additional updates will be posted on the department's website as information becomes available. Read more HERE.

• Changes to Import Requirements – Fresh Beef from Canada and USA
  Effective 28 July 2025, new import requirements apply to fresh raw (chilled or frozen) beef and beef products from Canada and the United States. Importers and customs brokers must now obtain an import permit under the 'Unretorted meat' case in BICON, with food safety requirements listed under the 'Beef and beef products' case.
  All consignments must be accompanied by a recognised government certificate meeting both biosecurity and food safety standards. Certification requirements relating to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy also apply.
  Initial consignments from new overseas producers will undergo analytical testing and inspection under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme, including label and visual checks. Provided the first consignment passes, subsequent shipments will be subject to 5% inspection and testing. Read more HERE.

• Update to Ballast Water Record Book Format
  Effective 1 February 2025, Resolution MEPC.369(80) introduced amendments to Appendix II of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments. Ships are now required to use the revised format for the Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB), including updated codes to more clearly describe ballast water operations and scenarios.
  The updated format is detailed in IMO guidance BWM.2 Circ.80/Rev.1. There is no change to the inspection process at Australian ports — BWRB entries will continue to be verified against the ballast water report submitted into MARS and logs from the ballast water management system, if applicable. While not mandatory, tank-by-tank recording is recommended to support inspection alignment.
  For further information, contact the Ballast Water Unit at pestsmarine@aff.gov.au or refer to the Australian Ballast Water Management Requirements v8. Read more HERE.

• Ballast Water Fact Sheet Published
  In response to a recent increase in non-compliances involving ballast water management systems, DAFF has released a new fact sheet to support vessel compliance with Australian biosecurity requirements.
  The fact sheet outlines what ships can expect during biosecurity inspections, highlights common causes of non-compliance, and provides practical tips to help ship crews prepare and manage ballast water effectively. Crews are encouraged to proactively report any system issues before arriving at an Australian port to avoid potential delays at berth.
  For further information, contact the Ballast Water Unit at pestsmarine@aff.gov.au or refer to the Australian Ballast Water Management Requirements v8. Read more HERE.

• Consultation on Amendments to Export Control Rules
  DAFF has opened public consultation on proposed amendments to the Export Control Rules 2021, specifically those relating to all three tariff rate quota rules: General, Feed Grain Export to Indonesia, and Sheepmeat/Goatmeat Export to the EU and UK.
  Proposed changes include reducing the minimum allocation for India cotton exports from 500 to 100 tonnes, and updating auditor reporting obligations to streamline requirements — auditors will only need to provide reports to the Secretary if requested.
  The consultation period runs from Monday 4 August to Friday 29 August 2025 via the department's Have Your Say platform. Feedback is sought to ensure the Rules remain practical and effective in supporting Australian exporters. For enquiries, contact: livestockexp@aff.gov.au. Read more HERE.

• Apple & Pear Export Registration Now Open – Protocol Markets 2025–26
  Applications are now open for accreditation of farms and packhouses intending to export apples and pears to protocol markets including China, Thailand, Taiwan, and Japan. DAFF opened applications on 4 August 2025 and all registrations must be submitted via the Australian Horticulture Export Registration System by 5:00pm AEST on 29 August 2025. Packhouses and growers must ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid rejection or delays. Read more HERE.

• Milk Exports to Korea – Electronic Certification Now Live
  Electronic certification is now available for milk and milk product exports to the Republic of Korea, operating in parallel with manual certificates from 1 August 2025. The initiative supports trade facilitation by reducing reliance on paper-based documents and enhancing traceability. Exporters are encouraged to start using the eCert process to streamline lodgements, reduce clearance times, and support regulatory alignment with Korea. Full transition is expected in the coming months. Read more HERE.

• Updated Guidance – Phytosanitary Certificates for Plant Exports
  DAFF has released revised guidance on completing phytosanitary certificates for plant exports. The update was published on 30 July 2025 and addresses common certification errors, clarifies expectations around language and format, and aligns practices with importing country requirements. Exporters and inspection providers should begin using the revised instructions immediately to avoid disruptions. Read more HERE.

FTA/APSA Advocacy Update – Biosecurity and Agricultural Productivity Reform

• Removing low-revenue nuisance tariffs to reduce business costs
• Incentivising trusted traders, with a focus on targeted growth of the Australian Trusted Trader program
• Disrupting illegitimate trade through earlier risk detection and intervention
• Modernising the Integrated Cargo System (ICS)
• Improving clearance speed and efficiency at seaports and airports

In parallel, FTA/APSA sees merit in DAFF reform priorities with a focus on achieving genuine productivity gains through:

• Regulatory simplification and removal of duplication
• Trusted data exchange and modernised compliance tools
• Transparent and accountable government decision-making
• A competitive, skilled, and resilient logistics ecosystem to support Australian agriculture

FTA/APSA also formally reinforced the position that cost recovery must be proportionate and aligned to risk, ensuring fair and efficient outcomes for industry.

These priorities will be progressed through upcoming participation in:

• 12 August 2025 (Brisbane) – Roundtable: Unlocking Productivity in Australian Agriculture to be hosted by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry, The Hon. Julie Collins MP 
• 14 August 2025 (Sydney) – Roundtable: Trade and Travel to be hosted by the ABF Commissioner, Gavan Reynolds AO and the Department of Home Affairs Secretary, Stephanie Foster PSM

Feedback from these roundtables will directly inform the broader Economic Reform Roundtable led by the Treasurer from 19–21 August 2025.

FTA/APSA will continue to provide further updates as this advocacy progresses.

Cargo Operations Snapshot

2026 Australia & New Zealand - Shipping & Logistics Conference

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) and the New Zealand Cargo Owners Council (NZCOC) are proud to launch the Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference. 

To be hosted alternately in Australia and New Zealand each year, the inaugural conference will take place at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, Australia, on Thursday 27 & Friday 28 August 2026.

Platinum Sponsor: The Port of Newcastle joins as the event's major sponsor, supporting this important flagship event – set to become the premier annual forum showcasing regional supply chain collaboration to the world.

This landmark event will bring together stakeholders across both countries:

• Exporters & Importers
• Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders
• Transport & Depot Operators
• Ports & Airports
• Shipping Lines & Airlines
• Government

Conference Themes:

• Shipping into the region and global connectivity
• Infrastructure investment, airport & port performance
• Biosecurity, border compliance & regulatory harmonisation
• E-commerce growth, consumer demand & best practices
• Decarbonisation & sustainability in supply chains
• AI, cybersecurity, automation & digital transformation

Quotes from Leaders:

Paul Zalai, Director of FTA & APSA Secretariat:
"This event will bring our region's freight and trade leaders together in a strategic, solutions-focused environment. The continued growth of global trade demands more agile and responsive logistics to achieve productivity gains."

Olga Harriton, Chair of APSA:
"This conference is a unique platform for cargo owners to shape the future of trade and logistics. Only through collaboration with governments, service providers, and tech leaders can we build a more efficient, secure and future-ready supply chain."

Brent Falvey, Chair of NZCOC:
"We're excited to partner with our Australian counterparts – this initiative lays a foundation for long-term engagement and stronger outcomes for all supply chain participants across the Tasman."

Craig Carmody, CEO, Port of Newcastle:
"Port of Newcastle is proud to support this landmark conference. Our commitment to trade diversification and future-focused infrastructure relies on stakeholder collaboration to create globally competitive supply chains."

Event Details
Dates: Thursday 27 & Friday 28 August 2026
Gala Dinner: Thursday 27 August
Conference Venue: Sheraton Grand, Sydney Hyde Park
Dinner Venue: Strangers Room, NSW Parliament House
Sponsorship enquiries: info@FTAlliance.com.au

Registration, speaker announcements & more info coming soon!

2025-2026 FTA Online CPD & CBC Training Packages

FTA/APSA Launch New Certificate of Origin Service

FTA and APSA members also receive an exclusive 10% discount - to access the service, register via the dedicated landing page available HERE.

Media Release available HERE

For further information, please contact us at support@FTAlliance.com.au

• Meeting 100 2025 – Communique 
• Meeting 100 2025 – FNL Minutes 

Biosecurity Treatment Providers Reference Group (BTPRG)

On 1 July 2020, Freight & Trade Alliance established the Biosecurity Treatment Providers Reference Group (BTPRG) designed to provide a One Voice platform for treatment providers to engage with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to deliver nationally consistent advocacy position(s) to government to lead reform and implement best practice. You can read our terms of reference HERE.
If you would like more information, please contact John Park.  The value of the group has been acknowledged by DAFF as can be seen HERE.


As always, we encourage members to share their feedback and insights to help us identify issues and advocate for improvements on your behalf.

Tom Jensen - General Manager Freight Policy & Operations - FTA / APSA

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