Changes

As advised in IIAN 173-2023: ‘Import condition changes for geotextiles’ the following changes to the Geotextiles for remediation BICON case has occurred:

The ‘Geotextiles for bioremediation’ BICON case was renamed to ‘Geotextiles’ to better reflect that the scope of the case covers only the import conditions for permitted plant fibre products imported for erosion control, weed suppression and landscaping. Import conditions for bioremediation products are found in the ‘Bioremediation products’ BICON case.

The import conditions for geotextile products were modified to clarify the document requirements for the assessment of these goods. Previously, documentation that identified the article, or the intended end use of the article, was only required at the time of inspection as confirmation of end use. This led to onshore clearance delays if this documentation was not initially provided when documents were lodged.

To assist with identification of the goods and their intended end use as geotextile products, the botanical or common name of the permitted plant fibre AND the intended end use is required to be presented at the assessment stage, prior to the goods being directed for mandatory inspection. This can be presented on one of the following documents: manufacturer’s declaration; supplier’s declaration; product label; phytosanitary certificate; packing list; bill of lading or commercial invoice. The change clarifies the import conditions for these goods and will ensure that documentation is available to inspection officers, which will avoid onshore inspection delays.

Who does this notice affect:
Importers and brokers of geotextiles and Pathway Operations Cargo - Assessment and Inspections.

Further Information:
Please contact the department by the following ways:

• Email imports@aff.gov.au (please use the subject ‘Plant Tier 2 – geotextiles import conditions’).
• Phone (from within Australia): 1800 900 090
• Phone (from outside Australia): + 61 3 8318 6700