6 May 2020
Who does this notice affect?
Importers and customs brokers lodging import documentation in person for the assessment of Personal Effects, Carnets or other imported goods at the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (the department) offices or Australian Border Force (ABF) offices.
Background
As previously advised in Industry Advice Notices 47-2020 and 48-2020, the department is continually assessing the impact of COVID-19 and recent government decisions on our biosecurity operations. Alternative procedures are being considered for some activities on a case-by-case basis in response to public health measures and impacts.
What has changed?
As a result of this, the department is implementing a new measure to help manage the current situation through the temporary cessation of client facing import assessment activities. In particular, the lodgement of import documentation in person for the biosecurity assessment of Personal Effects or Carnets at front counters located at all our offices nationally as well as at ABF offices where we provide import document assessment services.
Effective 11 May 2020 and until further notice, the department will be temporarily ceasing client facing import document assessments in these locations. Documentation for these assessments must be lodged via email to Import Assessment.
Where original government certification or documentation is required to be presented for assessment, these documents must be sent via courier to the relevant departmental office. A return courier envelope must accompany the original document in order to facilitate its return.
Further information
The following webpages provide information on importing Personal Effects and the electronic lodgement of documentation relating to these consignments:
- Lodgement of import documentation via email
- Moving to Australia or importing personal effects/household goods
- Preparing your personal effects for shipment to Australia
Importers are encouraged to check our website regularly or subscribe to our mailing list for up to date information.