1 August 2024
Who does this notice affect?
Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers and principal agents—associated with shipping or importing goods subject to increased intervention during the BMSB risk season.
What has changed?
China and Republic of South Korea will be added to the BMSB target risk countries list for heightened vessel surveillance only.
This is intended to ensure requisite measures are in place to manage biosecurity risks associated with seasonal pests on RoRo vessels, recognising the recent rise in exotic stinkbug detections from BMSB native countries. RoRo vessels that berth, load or tranship cargo from China and/or Republic of Korea will be subject and to heightened vessel surveillance, and risk management measures where necessary.
Industry information seasons for the 2024-25 BMSB risk season have been advised IIAN 165-2024. These sessions will include information on these changes.
Further information
Further information on the seasonal measures for vessels can be found on our website or by emailing SPP@aff.gov.au.
Information on pre-arrival reporting for maritime vessels can be found on the department’s website under Vessels, or by contacting the department’s National Maritime Centre (NMC) by email or phone 1300 004 605 (in Australia) or +61 8 8201 6185 (outside Australia).
Vessel reporting requirements and the Biosecurity Act 2015
Vessel masters and shipping agents are reminded:
- To read and understand the Biosecurity Status Document (BSD) directions and conditions and keep a copy of the current document on board the vessel for the duration of the voyage in Australia.
- Any changes in circumstances during the voyage in Australian waters, particularly changes to the human health of travellers or reporting pests and diseases, must be submitted via MARS or reported to the NMC as soon as practicable.
- That a failure to report accurately or comply with a requirement under the Biosecurity Act may result in penalties, including infringement notices, civil penalties or criminal prosecutions.