Changes

Stakeholders are reminded that the new import permit requirement for Brassicaceous seed requiring treatment and Cucurbitaceous seed requiring testing and/or treatment, that are imported for an end use of sowing, will commence on 1 July 2025.

Information on the introduction of revised import conditions was published in a BICON alert and Import Industry Advice Notice 30-2025.

Until the revised conditions are published, seed can continue to be imported under the existing import conditions in BICON, however importers are able to apply for import permits through BICON early.

Who does this notice affect:
This notice is of interest to importers (and their customs brokers) of the following Brassicaceous seed for sowing requiring treatment and Cucurbitaceous seed for sowing requiring testing and/or treatment (including synonyms and subordinate taxa) imported from all countries.

• Brassicaceous seed

  • Brassica rapa (turnip, bok choy)
  • Eruca vesicaria (rocket)
  • Raphanus sativus (radish)

• Cucurbitaceae seed

  • Citrullus lanatus (watermelon)
  • Cucumis melo (cantaloupe)
  • Cucumis sativus (cucumber)
  • Cucurbita maxima (winter squash, pumpkin)
  • Cucurbita moschata (butternut squash, pumpkin)
  • Cucurbita pepo (zucchini)
  • Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd)
  • Trichosanthes cucumerina (snake gourd)

How do I apply for a permit?
Importers are now able to apply for an import permit using the vegetable seed for sowing application form via the BICON cases for the vegetable seeds listed above. Please note that you can apply for multiple species of vegetable seed using this form, subject to fees and charges.

Please view the fact sheet 'New import permit requirements: Brassicaceous and Cucurbitaceous seed for sowing (PDF version)’ for more information on these changes and a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a permit.

Further information:
For further information, please contact Plant Import Operations on 1800 900 090 or email imports@aff.gov.au (please title the subject line of the email ‘Plant T2 - Seed for sowing’).

Information on import permits is located on the department’s webpage, including:

• Guidance on how to apply for an import permit
• Fees and charges for import permits.