The STEPS program will address the challenges associated with our complex and inefficient cargo import processes and systems.
Our aim is to:
- simplify biosecurity import processes and make it easier to comply
- modernise and increase digitisation of our services
- increase data sharing.
Our approach will benefit both industry and government, while maintaining effective biosecurity management.
STEPS is a $145 million, 3-year program of work. It will run from 2023-2026.
Benefits of the program
STEPS will unify how we manage cargo and shipping containers into a single cargo platform.
Benefits to industry will include:
- greater efficiencies
- more cargo under approved arrangements
- better visibility of cargo that is being managed by us, so industry can make cost effective decisions about imported cargo
- improved data on where import requirements haven’t been met, so industry can undertake better assurance oversight
- more self-service options to reduce on the need to contact us for routine matters
- support to submit accurate biosecurity documentation and accelerate the clearance process at the border.
How we will deliver
STEPS will build on previous investments made through the Biosecurity Integrated Information System (BIIS).
We will:
- enhance existing platforms
- streamline the applications involved in cargo and container management
- explore options to expand self-service capabilities
- share relevant and useful data to enable industry to better control their own workflows.
STEPS is working directly with industry to understand how you want to work with us. Our focus is to streamline the number of interaction points and equip you to make it easier to manage the import process.
Your insights are important to us. If you have any questions, or would like to be involved in STEPS consultation, contact us. Email STEPS@aff.gov.au
What we will deliver
By the end of 2024, we will deliver products to increase self-service options and share key data to industry.
Approved Arrangements Management Product (AAMP)
AAMP will enable Biosecurity Industry Participants (BIPs) who operate Approved Arrangements (AAs) to view and update their AA details via self-service. This means you won’t have to contact us.
You will be able to view and update details of an Approved Arrangement record. This will include:
- Approved Arrangement details (Entity Details)
- Contact details
- Classes
- Notices
- Arrangement Documents.
Since October 2023, it has been in limited release to 15 users.
From June 2024, we will begin to expand it to all BIPs in relation to 85 classes of AAs. This will be released in a staged rollout to BIPs.
External Verification of eCertificates (EVE)
The External Verification of eCertificates (EVE) will allow accredited brokers to view a secure eCert (phytosanitary certificate) as they assess commodities under an approved arrangement.
This is a first step towards providing access to digital certificates in a self-service format.
EVE is planned for release at the end of June 2024. New Zealand will be the first country included in EVE. Digital certificates from new countries will then be added as soon as they come online.
Biosecurity Cargo Status Tracker
The Biosecurity Cargo Status Tracker provides brokerages consistent and up-to-date visibility of cargo being managed by us.
Through the tracker, brokers will be able to:
- see what is happening to their client’s (an importer’s) consignment
- check what their brokerage has with us
- access tools that help them answer an importer’s enquiries
- view reports that help them prioritise activity
- access data to help improve their brokerage business.
From the end of June 2024, the Biosecurity Cargo Tracker will be made available to a small group of nominated accredited customs brokers and department staff. This will allow us to pilot the reporting and safe sharing of data.
We will then undertake a wider rollout in the final quarter of 2024.