Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) wishes to advise members that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has released a draft Imported New Vehicle Policy for industry review and comment. The proposed policy forms part of DAFF's ongoing efforts to strengthen biosecurity risk management associated with imported new vehicles, while recognising compliant supply chains and improving the efficiency of regulatory intervention. FTA has sought further clarification from DAFF regarding the purpose of the current consultation process and can confirm that the department is actively seeking industry feedback at this early stage of policy development. Importantly, DAFF has advised that feedback received during this phase will be considered as part of the policy refinement process and may assist in shaping the draft policy ahead of the broader Have Your Say consultation process. According to DAFF, the proposed policy aims to: - clearly define roles and responsibilities across the new vehicle import pathway
- set expectations for vehicle cleanliness and provide guidance on meeting biosecurity requirements
- recognise manufacturers and supply chains that minimise contamination risks through reduced regulatory intervention
- support fair and sustainable funding arrangements for biosecurity services
DAFF has indicated that it is particularly interested in feedback relating to: - inspection and compliance measures
- tariff coverage and any goods that may be missing from the proposed framework
- opportunities to improve the onshore intervention model
- operational impacts and unintended consequences
- areas where additional clarity or guidance may be required
FTA strongly encourages members to review the attached draft policy and provide practical operational feedback. In particular, DAFF is seeking advice on whether the proposed arrangements are workable, reasonable and clearly understood by industry participants, while continuing to achieve the underlying objective of managing biosecurity risks associated with imported new vehicles. Members are invited to provide feedback directly to DAFF via: seacargopolicy@aff.gov.au To assist in coordinating broader industry views, members are also welcome to provide comments to: SMilici@FTAlliance.com.au FTA recommends that feedback be provided by 15 July 2026 to allow sufficient time for industry views to be considered as part of the policy development process. The draft Imported New Vehicle Policy is available HERE. FTA will continue engaging with DAFF on this matter and will keep members informed as the consultation process progresses. Sal Milici - Licensed Customs Broker
General Manager Trade Policy & Operations - FTA / APSA
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