DAFF - eCert for iMports

Friday, November 23, 2012

Quarantine Alert

The information here covers AQIS quarantine requirements only and is current on the date of transmission but may change without notice. AQIS makes no warranties or representations with respect to the accuracy or completeness of that information and will bear no liability with respect to that information. Importers must satisfy quarantine concerns and comply with quarantine conditions applicable at the time of entry. The Commonwealth through AQIS is not liable for any costs arising from or associated with decisions of importers to import based on conditions presented here which are not current at the time of importation. It is the importer's responsibility to verify the accuracy and completeness of the information at the time of importation.

It is the importer's responsibility to identify and to ensure it has complied with, all requirements of any other regulatory and advisory bodies prior to and after importation including the Australian Customs Service, Therapeutic Goods Administration, Department of Health and Ageing, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authority and any State agencies such as Departments of Agriculture and Health and Environmental Protection authorities.

Importers should note that this list is not exhaustive. Importers should also note that all foods imported into Australia must comply with the provisions of the Imported Food Control Act 1992 , an Act which is administered by AQIS.

Notification of the import must be provided to AQIS for all imported goods other than goods imported as accompanied baggage or goods imported via the mail and not prescribed under the Customs Act 1901. Notification must be consistent with Quarantine Regulations 2000 (examples include a Quarantine Entry or a Quarantine declaration).
Public Quarantine Alert PQA0855

eCert for iMports Phase 1: Phytosanitary Certification from New Zealand Implementation

Importers, Customs brokers and DAFF officers are advised that eCert for iMports phase 1 phytosanitary certification from New Zealand has been implemented effective 26 November 2012.

From 26 November 2012 importers and brokers who import plant and plant based products, including but not limited to, fresh produce, plant, grain, nursery stock and timber, into Australia from New Zealand which requires Phytosanitary Certification, who accurately submit the NZ phytosanitary certificate number in the NZPHYTO "AQIS Document Number" field will not need to submit (via email or front counters) the NZ phytosanitary certificate for clearance purposes.

Further information on eCert is available on the DAFF website at: http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/import/general-info/electronic-certification-ecert

Queries relating to eCert for iMports can be directed to:

Entry Management Process Reform and Electronic Solutions Program

02 6272 3390 or ecertimports@daff.gov.au