DAFF - IIAN : 140-2026 : Australian Defence Force Military consignments now lodged in Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS)

10 August 2026

Who does this notice affect?

Clients who lodge Australian Defence Force Military consignments with the department.

What has changed?

From 10 August, Australian Defence Force Military lodgements will be processed through the department's Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS). Military will no longer lodge these entries via email and department staff will process them through COLS.

Other industry clients who use COLS will also see a visual change from 10 August as a new consignment import selection will be available being; 'Military Cargo'.

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 documentation for Australian Defence Force Military consignments through COLS.
• Enter information directly into the COLS lodgement and a coversheet is no longer required.
• Submit enquiries to the department about your lodgement via COLS.

Support

Australian Defence Force Military clients can visit the department's COLS Support webpage COLS support - DAFF which has been updated with helpful information and task cards (instructional guides) to support the new process.

Military can contact the Client Contact Group on 1800 900 090 for support.