Alerts

This alert is to detail upcoming changes to the import conditions of seed arriving through the mail or as passenger baggage

What is the change?

Seed arriving through the mail and as passenger baggage will need to be commercially packaged and labelled with the full botanical name (genus and species). Alternatively, a phytosanitary certificate, supplier’s declaration, International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) certificate or Naktuinbouw Authorised Laboratories (NAL) certificate that lists the botanical name of the seed can be presented.

Seed that already requires a phytosanitary certificate, mandatory ISTA testing or mandatory post-entry quarantine growth will be exempt from this requirement.

When will the change occur?

A trial period will commence 4 December 2017 and will run for two weeks. During the trial period, the change will apply to the Permitted seed for sowing BICON case only.

From 18 December 2017, the change will be effective on all remaining impacted BICON seed cases.

What do I need to do?

If you import, or plan to import, seed through the mail or as baggage, ensure that the seed is commercially packaged and labelled with the full botanical name (genus and species). Alternatively, ensure that you have organised acceptable documentation (refer to the above) that lists the full botanical name of the seed.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Plant Import Operations at imports@agriculture.gov.au.