Quarantine Approved Premises for imported biologicals

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) approves places where post-entry quarantine requirements may be carried out on a wide range of plants, animals and plant and animal products, so that it can be sure that these activities are performed with a minimal degree of risk. Places may also be approved for the quarantine handling of items of non-animal or plant origin, for example, those dealing with auto parts, scrap metal, cars and machinery.

By making provision for the registration of suitable places that conform to Quarantine Approved Premises (QAP) criteria it is possible to avoid placing many restrictions on importers. It is possible to ensure that registered places provide an appropriate degree of security and control against the introduction of exotic pests and diseases.

To gain approval there are conditions that the premises must meet to assure DAFF that the risk of any quarantine breach is minimal. In the case of plant, animal, microbiological and invertebrate research facilities, DAFF requires that premises comply with the design and construction aspects of the Australian/New Zealand Standards AS/NZS 2982.1:1997 (Laboratory Design and Construction) and AS/NZS 2243.3:2002 (Safety in Laboratories).

If you require further information regarding the requirements and processes involved in becoming a QAP please contact your nearest DAFF office.