Export and Quarantine laws and the role of AQIS
If you export food (meat, fish, seed, grains, fruit and vegetables) or livestock, or you import goods into Australia, you must be aware of your obligations under Australian law.
AQIS manages quarantine controls at our borders to minimise the risk of exotic pests and diseases entering the country. AQIS also provides import and export inspection and certification to help retain Australia's highly favourable animal, plant and human health status and wide access to overseas export markets.
Australia is free from a number of biological threats, such as foot and mouth disease, that have had major economic and environmental consequences for other countries.
Any illegal activity can undermine Australia's animal, plant and human health status and our wide access to overseas export markets. Failure to comply with the laws may result in heavy fines or imprisonment. Prosecution action that is pursued by AQIS is in line with the “Prosecution Policy of the Commonwealth - Guidelines for the making of decisions in the prosecution process”.
Minor breaches may result in a warning or Infringement Notice and fine. AQIS may also use the provisions of other legislation where relevant.
Further information
You can contact us directly if you require further information, assistance or advice.
AQIS Compliance and Investigations Contacts