DAFF - IIAN 156-2025: The Future of Biosecurity Monitoring: Discussion Paper

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Biosecurity Treatment Providers Reference Group (BTPRG) have over the last 5 years been in ongoing discussions with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) about changes to treatments , guidelines and methodologies impacting  Approved Arrangement holders. These discussions have been fruitful for both parties in understanding both the Biosecurity and Operational issues that changes can have. The support of the BTPRG members has been invaluable in these discussions. Recently DAFF approached us in relation to the Future of Biosecurity Monitoring, a matter that was also addressed at recent DAFF forums. DAFF has now released a discussion paper and survey to facilitate consultation on the development and use of new technologies for the monitoring of fumigations in the biosecurity industry. We invite industry, business and the community to read the discussion paper and contribute suggestions for the future of biosecurity fumigation technology through the Have Your Say survey which is now live.(survey closes 2 June) 2025 The discussion paper can be viewed HERE IIAN 156-2025 can be viewed HERE Background One of the controls Australia relies on to manage biosecurity risk and facilitate international and domestic trade are effective biosecurity fumigations. The number of treatments required to manage biosecurity risk is increasing over time and there are challenges for all stakeholders in gaining assurance that the treatments are being done effectively. The department wants to ensure that there are appropriate controls in place to address the risk of ineffective biosecurity fumigations. One of the controls the department applies is to ensure that critical treatment parameters, including fumigant concentration levels, are monitored throughout the treatment. The department reviews this information to ensure treatments are effectively managing the risks of target biosecurity pests. To mitigate the risk of ineffective treatments, there is a pressing need for improved technology to proactively monitor, validate and report fumigation information. By improving the accuracy and transparency of fumigation data, we can reduce the risk of fraud, enhance compliance and ensure that biosecurity measures are consistently followed. Embracing innovative solutions such as technological advancements is essential to modernizing biosecurity fumigation practices and securing trade against biosecurity threats.   Freight & Trade Alliance and the BTPRG suggest members review the document and complete the survey with their thoughts / commentary so we ensure full involvement in the process of deciding the future of monitoring processes / equipment.

John Park - Licensed Customs Broker Head of Business Operations - FTA / APSA Secretary, Biosecurity Treatment Providers Reference Group Copyright © 2025 Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Pty Ltd, All rights reserved.