Date of effect: 4 November 2022
Supersedes: IFN 03/21 - Imported food virtual inspections
Attention
Food importers and their customs brokers.
Purpose
To remind importers and their customs brokers that we offer virtual label and visual inspections for eligible imported food.
Key points
- We have developed a fact sheet about Imported food label and visual virtual inspections with information about:
- technological requirements for eligibility
- which foods are suitable and not suitable for a virtual inspection
- how to register for virtual inspections
- cost of virtual inspections
- what happens during a virtual inspection.
- Virtual inspections reduce wait times at the border. Once a virtual inspection request is received, inspections are generally undertaken within 3 working days.
- Your businesses must be registered to take part in virtual inspections.
- Physical inspections will continue to be an option for importers who do not wish to book a virtual inspection.
- Fees will be applied at the in-office charge rate as per the charging guidelines.
Instructions
- Read our Imported food label and visual virtual inspections fact sheet to learn more about our requirements.
- Email IFIS-InspectionSupport@aff.gov.au to register to take part in virtual inspections or to ask any further questions.
Background
- In 2020, in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the department conducted a trial of virtual inspections under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme (IFIS) for label and visual inspections of surveillance foods.
- The imported food virtual label and visual inspections initiative was implemented in July 2021, with virtual inspections increasing steadily since its introduction.
Subscribe for updates
Stay updated on changes to the requirements for imported food. Subscribe to the Imported Food Inspection Scheme imported food notices.