27 September 2016
Who does this notice affect?
This notice is for industry representatives involved with the movement of domestic dry bulk in-ship agricultural commodities (fertiliser, grain and stockfeed) on board international vessels.
Purpose
This notice is to remind industry representatives of the requirement to report movements of these goods prior to loading.
What has changed?
The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has procedures in place to manage the biosecurity risk posed by the movement of domestic agricultural commodities on board international vessels. All cargo moved within Australian territory under these arrangements is subject to biosecurity control in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 2015.
International vessels intending to carry domestic bulk fertiliser, grain or stockfeed are required to hold Level 1 vessel status, and if not, undergo a verified, in-hold assessment by a marine surveyor prior to loading. New web-based forms have been developed to assist industry notify the department and obtain a risk rating for vessels prior to loading these cabotage cargoes. These forms are available on the department’s website at Cabotage cargo.
Further information
More information on cabotage requirements is available on the department’s website.
You can also call the department on +61 1800 900 090 or email Fertiliser Chemical.