DAFF - IIAN : 116-2026 Privateer and Diplomat lodged UPE"s now lodged in Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS)

8 July 2026

Who does this notice affect?

Clients who lodge Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPE's) with the department without using a registered customs broker.

What has changed?

From 8 July, UPE lodgements by Privateers and Diplomats will be processed through the department's Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS). Privateers and Diplomats will no longer lodge these entries via email and department staff will process them through COLS. 

Other industry clients who submit commercial goods - Full Import Declaration (FID's) will also see a visual change from 8 July as a new consignment import selection will be available being; 'Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPE)'.

This enhancement delivers on commitments to improve document lodgement process for industry and was developed as part of the Simplified Targeting and Enhanced Processing Systems (STEPS) Program. STEPS is an investment in the department's imported cargo ICT systems and business processes to enhance Australia's biosecurity risk management by creating a faster, simpler and more integrated cargo clearance system.

Key process changes

• Lodge UPEs through COLS.
• Enter information directly into the COLS lodgement and a coversheet is no longer required.
• Ability to process payment at the time of lodgement via the COLS workflow for some clients.
• Submit enquiries to the department about your lodgement via COLS. 

Support

Privateers and Diplomats can visit the department's COLS Support webpage COLS support which has been updated with helpful information and task cards (instructional guides) to support the new process. 

Privateers and Diplomats can contact the Client Contact Group on 1800 900 090 for support.