Importation of zoo hippopotamuses and their semen from approved countries to Australia

We have completed the final report on the policy review for the importation of zoo hippopotamuses and their semen from approved countries.

Steps to complete this risk analysis

When we do a risk analysis, we:

• Start by reviewing the science on pests and diseases of concern
• assess and analyse biosecurity risks
• develop proposed risk management measures, if required
• consult the public on the draft report and then review comments
• publish a final report
• develop import conditions
• publish import conditions in our Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON).

Public consultation

Public consultation on the draft review Importation of zoo hippopotamuses and their semen from approved countries – draft report is now closed.

About the final report

This policy review takes into consideration the biosecurity risks for Australia associated with the importation of live zoo hippopotamuses and their semen from approved countries. It considers relevant peer-reviewed scientific information, advice from international scientific experts, and relevant operational practicalities.

The review recommends to:

• Allow the importation of eligible zoo common hippos and pygmy hippos and their semen into Australian zoos from approved countries, subject to a range of biosecurity measures
• Allow only animals, or semen from animals, that have been resident since birth or at least 12 months prior to export in zoo or wildlife parks that are approved, licensed or registered by the exporting country
• Apply biosecurity risk mitigation measures including disease freedom periods and testing in quarantine for the diseases identified by this review.

Download the final report

Stakeholder consultation

We released a draft report on 24 April 2024 for a 60-day consultation period. The final report considered comments received during the consultation period. 

Minor amendments to conditions were made in response to stakeholder feedback to provide further clarity on requirements. A summary of these changes is provided below. 

Download the draft report

Next steps

Following the release of the final report, import conditions will be developed and published on Australia’s Biosecurity Import Conditions website (BICON). Once these conditions have been published, importers can then apply for permits.

Register as a stakeholder

Register as a stakeholder to receive notices about animal biosecurity policy.

Contact us

For more information about this review email Animal Biosecurity.

Learn

Learn more about why we carry out risk analyses and our international obligations.