Dairy product codes

When requesting an export permit through the department’s Next Export Documentation (NEXDOC) system, it is essential to provide the product details being exported and ensure eligibility for export.

Dairy product category codes are used when raising a request for export (REX) to specify the specific product being exported.

Please refer to the below product code lists to ensure you select the correct category code. Product descriptions listed in the below tables are as they appear:

• in the department’s NEXDOC system
• when printed on export documentation, including health certificates (when applicable).

Note: Effective 31 July 2023, the department has implemented new dairy establishment registered operation codes and product category codes. For additional details, please refer to the table of updated dairy establishment registered operations for manufacturers below.

Australian Harmonised Export Commodity Codes (AHECC).

The department's NEXDOC system is integrated with the Australian Harmonised Export Commodity Codes (AHECC). The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) sets AHECC codes to classify goods exported from Australia, while the Australian Border Force (ABF) manages AHECC codes in the Integrated Cargo System (ICS). AHECC codes are used to classify internationally traded goods as they enter and leave Australia. These codes identify goods that require an export permit before entering the wharf or airport and subsequently being cleared for export.

NEXDOC does not validate whether an AHECC code matches the product or category codes. It remains the exporter’s responsibility to ensure they use the correct AHECC code for the product being exported.

Specific classification advice can be sought from the ABF’s Tariff Advice System on 1800 053 016.

Prescribed goods under Australian export legislation

The Export Control (Milk and Milk Products) Rules 2021 prescribe dairy goods which are manufactured in Australia, intended for human consumption and where the major ingredient is dairy from bovine origin.

Prescribed goods when required by importing country requirements

Products which do not meet the criteria under the Export Control (Milk and Milk Products) Rules 2021 are classified by the department as non-prescribed goods. When an importing country requires health certification and government oversight for these products, they become prescribed and are required to meet all export requirements. These products must meet the criteria outlined in Australian export legislation for export registration and obtaining a valid export permit prior to departure.

To find out more about importing country requirements you can:

• Check our Manual of Importing Country Requirements (Micor).
• Talk to your importer about importing country requirements.

If your product is not listed in the below product code lists, below read our advice on how to export non-prescribed goods.