DAFF Guide to Major Resource and Energy Industries

Contents

Importing Equipment for Major Industry Projects

Biosecurity Management Strategy (BMS) – Industry consultation in progress

Keeping Biosecurity Risks Off–shore

Biosecurity Risk Material (BRM)

Prevention measures
Site and vessel hygiene (prior to export)
Pests
Soil and water
Plant material
Packaging
Manufacture and storage
Loading ports
Off–shore inspections

Arriving in Australia

Vessel and aircraft requirements
Off-shore installations
Landing places
Quarantine Approved Premises (QAPs)
Quarantine waste
Treatments

Types of Cargo and Associated Biosecurity Risks

Break bulk cargo
Containerised cargo
Machinery
Pre–assembled Modules (PAMS)
Wind turbines
Pipes

Strategies to Facilitate Clearance

Biosecurity Management Strategy Framework
Checklists
Sail–Away Report
Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S)
Biosecurity Awareness Training
Records, Reporting and Review

Other Useful Information

Fees and Charges
Other agencies
Communication with DAFF

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Importing Equipment for Major Industry Projects

Australia harbours around 10 per cent of the world’s biodiversity.

More than 80 per cent of the country’s flowering plants, mammals, reptiles and frogs are unique to Australia, along with most of its freshwater fish and almost half of its birds. Of the estimated 20,000 species of vascular plants found in Australia, 16,000 are found nowhere else in the world.

Australia’s marine environment is home to 4,000 fish species, 1,700 coral species, 50 types of marine mammals and a wide range of seabirds. About 80 per cent of marine species found in southern Australian waters occur nowhere else in the world.

Our biosecurity management procedures ensure that Australia maintains its self sufficiency in food production and its vital agricultural export markets and protects the environment.

Protecting Australia’s biosecurity is a responsibility shared between government, industry and the community. Our goal is to work together to prevent biosecurity risks before they arrive in Australia. Industry–initiated risk management can greatly reduce the time and costs of biosecurity clearance.

The following information has been developed to assist major industry projects comply with Australia’s biosecurity requirements.

It is recommended that biosecurity management practices are maintained throughout the supply chain and that all suppliers, fabricators and contractors are provided with relevant biosecurity information to ensure biosecurity compliance.

If you are involved in a major project and would like further information, please contact:

The Manager, Major Industry Projects, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry (DAFF)

Phone: +61 2 6272 3091 or Email the Major Industry Projects Team

Biosecurity Management Strategy (BMS) – Industry consultation in progress

The development of a Biosecurity Managment Strategy (BMS) is encouraged for all resources and energy sector companies importing cargo. A BMS applies biosecurity risk management to all aspects of the project’s supply chain, including design, contracting, purchasing, construction and transport. A BMS that describes how biosecurity risks will be managed from construction overseas to lay–down in Australia is recommended to minimise potential biosecurity risks and avoid costly delays.

More information relating to the BMS process, including templates, is outlined in the BMS Framework.

(this framework is currently under development and will be available as soon as possible, post the completion of the project’s industry trial)

Keeping Biosecurity Risks Off–shore

Biosecurity Risk Material (BRM)

Importers are responsible for ensuring that imported cargo is free from Biosecurity Risk Material when it arrives in Australia. Importing processes that keep Biosecurity Risk Material off-shore help protect Australia from exotic pests and diseases that can impact on our food security, unique environment and economy.

DAFF can direct imported equipment contaminated with BRM for cleaning, treatment, destruction and disposal or export at the importer’s expense.

Examples of Biosecurity Risk Material include:

Animal material: hair, fur, skin, faeces, shells, blood and fluids, feathers, nests, honey, flesh and bone

Live animals: birds, rodents and reptiles

Food refuse: food scraps

Live insects: Khapra Beetle, wood borers, mosquitoes, bees, wasps

Snails: Giant African Snail

Plant pathogens: fungi, nematodes, bacteria, viruses etc

Plant material: pollen, bark, spores, flowers, seeds, gum, leaves, branches, roots, stems, wood, fruits and vegetables

Soil: dirt, mud, gravel, clay and sand

Water: possibly harbouring mosquitoes, larvae and eggs

Further information on Biosecurity Risk Material can be found on the following web pages:

• Biosecurity Risk Material Matrix
• Biosecurity issues associated with containers and the goods they carry

Alternatively, contact your regional DAFF office.

Prevention measures

Biosecurity risks are influenced by many factors, including:

• country of origin and port of export
• the type of material being used in the construction of the commodity that is being imported
• manufacturing processes
• cleanliness and hygiene of manufacturing facilities
• sanitation and hygiene of receiving (lay down) areas
• method and routes of transport including cross contamination issues during transport
• packaging and delivery systems
• seasonal factors e.g. insect breeding, seed shedding etc.

Site and vessel hygiene (Prior to export)

Effective pest control and hygiene programs should be in place at all project associated facilities e.g. fabrication yards, lay-down areas, wharfs, vessels and any other location that cargo may be held prior to transport to Australia. A regime of regular inspections for evidence of pest infestations (such as droppings, tracks, pupae, casings, webbing and damage) should be implemented and maintained.

Poor hygiene practices can provide food sources and breeding sites for a range of pests and insects and contribute to the spread of pests and diseases. There is also potential for insects to reproduce in large numbers and establish quickly in new locations if conditions are favourable and left untreated.

Effective hygiene programs should include policies and procedures that ensure:

• all areas are kept clean and free of BRM
• food is only stored and consumed in designated locations e.g. kitchens/meals areas
• waste bins are kept covered and are vermin proof
• areas are maintained and kept free of vegetation including weeds
• water does not pool in areas and provide breeding sites for mosquitoes.

Equipment and cargo should be stored on clean, sealed surfaces to prevent cross contamination. Pipes and open ended structures once inspected and assessed as free from BRM should be covered or capped to prevent contamination. Effective methods for preventing contamination include designing out voids and containment areas where water can collect, containerisation, covering with tarps, other impervious materials or placement within storage sheds.

Pests

Hitchhiker pests

Hitchhiker pests can contaminate cargo. Examples of hitchhiker pests include birds, bees or wasps, moth egg masses and ant nests.

Prevention strategy

Processes (off-shore and during transport to Australia) should be developed to prevent hitchhiker contamination including fogging risk cargo with insecticides and covering cargo susceptible to birds roosting or dropping faeces.

Snails

Snails can cause damage to agricultural products, introduce diseases, and make commercial products unmarketable. Giant African Snail (GAS) is regarded by most countries to be the most damaging land snail in the world. Images and further information on GAS can be found on the Pest and Disease Image Library website.

A list of countries where GAS is found is on the Country Action List page.

Prevention strategy

In countries where GAS is found, measures should be taken to prevent their access to cargo e.g. rings of salt or snail pellets around cargo.

Timber pests

Wood boring pests (borers) are a group of insects that use timber as their primary food source and breeding locations. They can cause significant damage to timber products. Borer damage is noticeable by a series of holes in timber or evidence of frass. Frass appears similar to saw dust and is the ‘droppings’ that the borer larvae expel as they consume timber. Termites can also be a significant pest particularly to the forestry industry. More information on timber pests can be found at Forests and Timber: A field guide to exotic pests and diseases.

Prevention strategy

All timber packing should be treated by a DAFF approved method.

Soil and water

Soil

Soil has the potential to harbour contaminants such as plant material including seeds, animal waste, animal and plant pests and pathogens. Common modes of soil contamination include surfaces that have contact with the ground and dirty shoes.

Prevention strategy

Store all materials and equipment on clean lay–down and storage areas. Once cargo has been cleaned and inspected for export, it should be placed off the ground or on a sealed surface free of BRM to avoid contamination. Footwear should be cleaned before climbing onto cargo or into components. Ensure there are no exposed grease points on cargo where soil and plant material may stick.

Water

Water can carry seeds, plant, human and animal pathogens and provide a pathway for vectors such as mosquitoes to introduce disease. Water can harbour many mosquito life stages and many micro–organisms as well as water borne diseases. It is therefore important to ensure that water cannot collect or pool on cargo or on vessels.

Prevention strategy

Any potential water holding receptacles should be covered to prevent water pooling. Implement a mosquito management plan in surrounding areas to reduce infestation potential and treat any areas where water may have pooled.

Treatment T9205 (from the ICON case) should be used if mosquito larvae are located, using chlorine at a rate of 200ppm – this is one teaspoon (5g) of granulated chlorine per 25 litres of water.

Plant material

Imported plants and plant material are a major concern to DAFF because of their potential to become uncontrollable weeds. Most of the weeds causing problems for agriculture and our natural environment came from overseas countries. Plant material including seeds, grass residues, straw residues, branches, twigs, and leaves can also harbour insects and plant pathogens.

Prevention strategy

Vegetation should be kept clear from areas where cargo is held as wind and water borne seeds are a potential biosecurity risk. A weed control program is also recommended. Overhanging vegetation on transport routes should be cleared as this is a known source of plant material contamination. Also consider covering or wrapping cargo to prevent contamination.

Packaging

Timber packing

Often timber is used as a packing material in the form of pallets, crates, gluts bearers and supports. All timber used as packaging or dunnage should be free of live insects and/or insect damage. Packaging and dunnage should also be free from bark; however there is a tolerance for small pieces of bark that have not been completely removed during milling. Bark (the outer covering of trees and branches) can harbour fungi, bacteria, viruses and pathogens, which could introduce an exotic disease to plants. More information on bark can be found on the following DAFF web pages:

• Bark on timber packaging and dunnage
• Biosecurity issues associated with containers or the goods they carry
• Import Conditions Database – ICON – Timber packaging and dunnage

Prevention strategy

Ensure any timber used is free of bark and has been treated by a DAFF approved method.

ISPM15 compliant timber

Australia implemented the international standard ISPM 15 ‘Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in International Trade’ which was developed to address the global spread of timber pests by regulating the movement of timber packaging and dunnage in international trade.

ISPMs are recognised as the basis for phytosanitary measures applied by members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (the SPS Agreement). Australia has been a WTO member since 1995.

Acceptable ISPM 15 treatments are either fumigation with methyl bromide or heat treatment. Solid timber packaging and dunnage treated under this standard is identified by a set of permanent stamps applied to the timber article.

Other packaging materials

Packaging such as fruit cartons and used grain bags can harbour live insects and plant or fruit residues, all of which can potentially introduce exotic pests, diseases, fungi or bacteria to Australia. For example, hessian sacks are often contaminated with grain, seeds or rice.

Straw, rice hulls and similar plant materials can also harbour pathogens and provide a food source for animals and insects, and can be used as nesting material by birds or rodents.

Further information on prohibited packaging material can be found under section 13 of the Non–commodity Information Requirements Policy.

Materials used to wrap cargo should be sealed to prevent entry of pests and BRM.

Prevention strategy

Do not pack goods in second hand bags or fruit boxes and do not use any plant materials such as straw for packaging. Ensure wrapping materials do not pose a contamination risk and provide all suppliers and contractors with packing specifications/biosecurity information to assist in meeting biosecurity requirements. For further information of packaging material see the Non–commodity Information Requirements Policy.

Manufacture and storage

Poor hygiene practices at fabrication or manufacturing yards can be a major source of biosecurity contamination. It is important that all relevant project personnel on manufacturing sites are aware of and implement preventative measures as described in the Prevention Measures section.

A BMS should define a suitable inspection regime during the construction process, how cargo will be stored post construction, and actions to be taken if contamination is found.

If the port of loading is located away from the fabrication or supply yards, the transport route to the port may pose a risk of contamination by way of overhanging branches and the collection of seeds and soil. Inspection of the route is recommended to assess if preventative measures need to be applied.

Loading ports

Loading ports can also be a potential source of biosecurity contamination. An assessment of lay–down and storage areas and their surrounds; and activities in port which may provide a potential source of contamination, for example weeds adjacent to port or loading of grain at a nearby berth which could be blown onto export cargo, should be carried out and potential risks mitigated.

The inclusion of a loading port plan in the BMS to minimise biosecurity risk associated with cargo storage and load out is recommended. Recontamination of cargo with Biosecurity Risk Material can occur during unloading at the port and prior to loading onto the export vessel. Inspection and/or cleaning, prior to loading, may be necessary to ensure cargo is free of contamination.

Port Plan – A description of the port includes details of infrastructure such as wharf layout, locations and available infrastructure. Include a Google map of the port and surrounds noting the transport route.

Off–shore Inspections

Important – Off–shore inspections are not routinely approved and are generally only applied for importations of cargo that, due to inherent risks and or in Australia’s national interest, should be inspected prior to arrival in Australia.

If approved, off–shore inspections are at the importer’s expense and DAFF officers may travel overseas to inspect cargo and/or facilities, or to assist importers to meet Australia’s import requirements. Written requests are required (minimum of 6 weeks prior to intended inspection).

It remains the responsibility of the importer to ensure imports arrive in Australia free from Biosecurity Risk Material. An off–shore inspection does not constitute DAFF clearance and cargo may be inspected on arrival into Australia to confirm compliance with biosecurity requirements. DAFF may direct further treatments, destruction or re–export if contamination is detected on the cargo.

Further information on DAFF offshore inspections of used machinery is available under Off–shore inspections of used machinery and equipment page.

Arriving in Australia

Vessel and aircraft requirements

Sea vessels

International vessels and their associated crew, passengers and goods arriving at Australian ports can present significant biosecurity risks and as such, are subject to biosecurity requirements.

A guide for agents and vessel operators intending to operate in or visit Australia is located under Vessels page.

This link contains important information on a range of vessel related issues including international health regulations, pre–arrival reporting, ballast water and biofouling requirements, procedures for clearing vessels to coastal status and treatment processes and procedures to ensure that biosecurity risks, if present on vessels are adequately managed.

Prior approval from border agencies (DAFF and Customs) is required to land vessels at non–proclaimed ports as some ports are not routinely staffed by border agency personnel and do not have adequate infrastructure to manage quarantine waste, vessel servicing including reprovisioning, fresh water, bunkering, repairs, crew changes, vessel inspections and/or associated regulatory clearance.

It is recommended that vessels transporting cargo to Australia are maintained so that they are clean and free from Biosecurity Risk Material to reduce cross–contamination opportunities. It is also important that the crew are vigilant throughout the voyage to prevent hitchhikers such as birds boarding the vessel and contaminating previously clean cargo.

Aircraft

All international aircraft and their associated crew, passengers and goods arriving at Australian airports are subject to biosecurity requirements including international health regulations and pre–arrival reporting requirements to ensure that biosecurity risks, if present are adequately managed. A guide for agents and aircraft operators intending to operate in or visit Australia is located under Aircraft.

As with sea vessels, prior approval from border agencies (DAFF and Customs) is required to land aircraft at non–proclaimed ports.

Off-shore installations

The document Off-shore Installations Quarantine Guide provides the off–shore oil and gas industry with guidance on Australian biosecurity management requirements for vessels, equipment and infrastructure entering Australian waters, including vessels servicing these activities.

Landing places

To assist with the clearance of cargo, it is recommended that project infrastructure and equipment be sent to an Australian port where there are Quarantine Approved Premises (QAP). QAPs are operated by companies that are accredited by DAFF against strict biosecurity criteria. These premises have facilities to contain quarantine waste and a lay–down area large enough to hold the consignment and facilitate unpacking, inspection and treatment of cargo.

If the intended port of arrival does not have suitable facilities or is not proclaimed to receive cargo, a port assessment will be required prior to cargo being imported to that location, will be required to determine the suitability of the port to discharge cargo. A port’s suitability is determined by factors including size, construction and condition of lay–down areas, serviceability by DAFF and other service providers, waste disposal and treatment facilities, security, meeting Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) considerations, the ability to segregate cargo, location and seasonal factors.

If a port proposed for landing cargo is not within a reasonable distance from a DAFF office, the importer may have to pay accommodation and meal costs for the attending DAFF personnel.

Non–proclaimed ports

Not all ports are declared for first port of entry and not all ports are declared for the landing of goods. First ports of entry and landing places are listed in the Quarantine Proclamation 1998.

Under section 20AA of the Quarantine Act 1908, the Minister (or a delegate) may give permission for a vessel (including aircraft) to be brought to a place other than a proclaimed first port of entry (non–proclaimed) subject to specified conditions. Vessels that intend to enter an Australian non–proclaimed port as their first port of call or subsequent port of call (section 33 of the Quarantine Act 1908), must apply for permission to enter that port by completing the Application for S20AA and S33 Permission for vessels to Enter an Australian Non–Proclaimed First Port of Entry an /or Subsequent Port of Call.

If an overseas vessel intends to land animals, plants or other goods at a place that is not a declared port, the master, owner or agent of the vessel must apply for permission to land the goods under Section 20D of the Quarantine Act 1908. More information and application form can be found under Landing animals, plants or other goods at a non–declared port.

Failure to apply may result in the goods having to remain on the vessel, the vessel being re–directed to a proclaimed port, or exported. Obtaining DAFF approval to discharge cargo at a non–proclaimed port is unlikely if it is near an existing proclaimed port that can handle the size and types of cargo. A port assessment may be required before DAFF will determine whether to approve the discharge of cargo.

Lay–down areas

All landing ports must have adequate infrastructure including lay–down areas. These should include a hardstand area that is large enough to securely place imported cargo for inspection or treatment. The surface of the lay–down area should be constructed of a hard surfaced material and must be maintained in a clean condition to protect the imported cargo from cross contamination. The surrounds of the lay–down area should also be maintained free from Biosecurity Risk Material to avoid cross contamination. Lengthy delays in cargo clearance may occur if facilities are inadequate.

Rural/remote unpack locations

All containerised cargo destined for unpack in a non–metropolitan area is subject to a DAFF inspection prior to delivery unless it is to be unpacked at a premise holding a DAFF rural inspection exemption. The primary purpose of these ’rural tailgate inspections’ is to ensure that containers and their contents are free of BRM. All empty containers that are imported and destined for rural areas require an internal and external inspection on arrival, prior to release.

A list of postcodes can be downloaded that show the areas designated as metropolitan, fringe rural and rural, used for tailgate inspections. Ports must have appropriate facilities for DAFF officers to perform the inspections, including being able to inspect the underside of the containers. To perform this inspection, a container must be placed on an approved Covaris container inspection stand (or a skeletal trailer).

Quarantine Approved Premises (QAPs)

DAFF recognises that all imported goods have the potential to introduce exotic pests and diseases into Australia. Therefore QAPs at discharge ports play a key role in facilitating the management of biosecurity risks and meeting post–entry biosecurity requirements in the supply chain. Importers should be aware that the current infrastructure available at some remote ports in Australia including cargo lay–down and inspection areas and treatment facilities may be limited or non–existent. Importers can investigate opportunities to establish Quarantine Approved Premises at ports by liaising with QAP officers in the relevant region.

QAP types and criteria

Class One Sea and Air Freight Depots are the first places in Australia where the majority of sea and air cargo is handled and cleared, and provides an opportunity for DAFF and industry to manage risks to Australia’s biosecurity. Class 1.1 QAPs have fumigation and wash bay facilities to deal with biosecurity issues.

DAFF approves QAP using specified conditions. These conditions also set out the requirements to maintain appropriate class approval and are one of the documents used to assess a QAP’s compliance to the approved class or classes of commodities. Criteria for each QAP class are explained on the Quarantine Approved Premises Criteria.

QAP approval process

When assessing whether premises can be approved as a QAP, DAFF takes into account the nature of the goods and the biosecurity risks they pose, and specifies conditions that the QAP operator must meet to ensure that risks are minimised. DAFF approval is subject to the premises satisfying all the requirements set out in the criteria and any other conditions DAFF may set. The approval requirements will depend on the goods intended to be imported and their end use.

QAP operators will need to meet the QAP Conditions of Approval, undertake applicable training and meet the structural and procedural requirements as detailed in the applicable class criteria. The Application for Approval of a Place for Performance of Quarantine is required to be completed where seeking approval for a premise to be a QAP.  For more information see the Questions on the application for approval of a place for performance of quarantine or contact a QAP officer.

Non–metropolitan QAPs

There are increased biosecurity risks associated with QAPs located outside metropolitan areas. Fringe rural and rural environments are more likely to be susceptible to the establishment of exotic pests and diseases than metropolitan areas.

To manage this increased risk, DAFF has developed additional requirements to help operators better understand the conditions for approval of premises in fringe rural and rural areas. In addition to completing the application for approval of a place for the performance of quarantine, operators in non–metropolitan areas need to complete a Rural Checklist.  

Applicants must complete the Rural Checklist to enable assessment of risks and should be read in conjunction with the Rural Checklist Application Guide. This guide specifies the information required for each section of the checklist.

Quarantine waste

Quarantine waste can include soil, seeds, plant and animal contamination, residue from wash bay facilities and soil traps, dunnage and any sweepings from dunnage areas, other packing materials and any spilled goods that are of biosecurity concern. Quarantine waste must be contained and clearly marked as quarantine waste and must never be placed into an ordinary rubbish disposal facility.

All waste accumulated in quarantine waste bins, DAFF approved storage areas or removed from wash bay facilities, including residue from soil traps, must be transported by a DAFF–approved waste transporter or under DAFF supervision, and treated/disposed of by a DAFF–approved waste disposal facility or in a manner approved by DAFF. Dunnage used as packing and other Biosecurity Risk Material on vessels may remain on vessels and be exported.

Ensure relevant state government, local council and EPA requirements are considered when disposing of waste material. The Quarantine Waste Management Policy outlines DAFF’s technical requirements for the collection, storage, transport, treatment and disposal of quarantine waste.

Treatments

As outlined in QAPs above, it is important that landing places have the infrastructure and access to approved service providers to manage issues of biosecurity concern such as contamination on cargo and packaging. Any biosecurity risk must be treated on–site, exported off-shore or securely transported to a location (normally by sea) with appropriate biosecurity risk management facilities.

Fumigations

Methyl bromide fumigations may only be performed by treatment providers that are licensed to use that chemical. Treatments must be supervised by DAFF if the fumigator is not accredited under the DAFF Onshore Quarantine Fumigation Scheme Compliance Agreement. (See the list of on–shore treatment providers). In remote locations that do not have a licensed methyl bromide fumigator, it is important to have an agreement with a fumigator (preferably DAFF accredited) to be able to travel to the site at short notice to perform the treatment. It may also be prudent to have a supply of gas and equipment on-site to reduce risk of transport delays.

Cleaning

Ideally a landing place would have a DAFF approved wash bay equipped with high pressure cleaners and other necessary equipment to clean any contaminated cargo. Other useful cleaning equipment could include industrial strength vacuum cleaners, brooms, dustpans, brushes and disinfection chemicals e.g. Virkon S.

Other treatments and equipment

Remote locations usually have limited options for treating biosecurity contamination. This reinforces the need to ensure that the risk is managed prior to arrival in Australia. Even with the most rigorous procedures and processes adopted by industry, contamination is still a possibility. It is therefore recommended that landing sites hold a supply of equipment as a contingency to deal with potential concerns, and that staff are adequately trained to use it. A recommended list of supplies includes (but is not limited to):

• cleaning equipment
• torches
• tools including spanners, crow bar, wire brushes, scrapers and small mirrors
• toughened plastic bags
• lockable containers clearly marked for quarantine waste and dunnage
• Virkon S (DAFF approved disinfectant)
• salt (min 25kg bags)/snail pellets
• pyrethrum based knock down insecticides (e.g. Propoxur, Permethrin)
• insect bombs
• Cislin insecticide
• chlorine
• pressurised pump action spray bottles
• bunting, flags and stands
• safety bollards, quarantine signage
• Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) – including gloves, glasses, and ear plugs.

Types of Cargo and Associated Biosecurity Risks

Import conditions for a range of commodities can be found on the import conditions database (ICON). More information on other types of cargo is provided below.

Break bulk cargo

Break bulk cargo (a shipping term for any non–containerised cargo that must be loaded individually or cannot fit into a container such as timber, steel, pipes, building structures etc.), may or may not require a mandatory DAFF inspection depending on the type of cargo, its origin and pre–arrival treatments applied.

Break–bulk not requiring mandatory inspection may still be subject to surveillance inspection to verify compliance with off-shore procedures and to inspect for biosecurity concerns such as hitchhiker pests.

Discharge details of break–bulk cargo must be provided to the local DAFF office responsible for its clearance (preferably by email or facsimile) at least 24 hours prior to a vessel's arrival. More notice (at least 7–10 days) is recommended for remote locations. Information regarding vessels discharging containers and/or break–bulk cargo must include:

• vessel name, IMO No, voyage number, port and berth
• date and times when discharging/delivering cargo
• if direct lifting is to occur ('under the hook delivery'), date, times and contact details
• marks and description of break–bulk being discharged and delivered
• information should include general cargo description and quantity.

More information on notification of break–bulk arrivals and regional contact details can be found under Break–bulk cargo – Notice to the shipping and stevedoring industry.

Containerised cargo

The following requirements apply to containerised cargo:

• provide DAFF with a packing declaration for each container. The packing declaration should provide details of container cleanliness and whether prohibited material and timber have been used as packing materials. Containers will have to be opened and inspected at a QAP if this information is not provided. 
• ensure the internal and external surfaces of containers have been cleaned and are free from Biosecurity Risk Material, prior to loading and export. Container lay–down areas should be clean to avoid cross contamination.
• have all timber used as packaging in the container treated by a DAFF approved method. Refer to rural/remote unpack locations for information on containers landing in rural areas. More information on containers can be found under Quarantine aspects and procedures – cargo containers.

Machinery

It is the importer’s responsibility to ensure all machinery arrives in Australia in a clean state. Machinery not meeting acceptable cleanliness standards will not be permitted entry. DAFF defines clean as free from BRM and DAFF does not accept machinery which is grossly contaminated with soil or plant material. Used machinery should be dismantled and thoroughly cleaned prior to export. All oil and grease stains must be cleaned to prevent adherence of Biosecurity Risk Material contamination. New machinery is often contaminated during loading (e.g. wet, muddy conditions) or by being field tested before shipment to Australia. A common problem is ‘soil splash‘, which is a thin film of soil that adheres to machinery tracks, tyres and panels during the loading process. More information on importing machinery into Australia can be found under Importing machinery to Australia page.

Pre–assembled Modules (PAMs)

Modules present a potential pest and disease pathway into Australia if contaminated with Biosecurity Risk Material. Due to the size and complexity of these structures, they can be difficult to inspect and treat on arrival and therefore processes put in place off–shore are imperative to reduce the risk of introduction of pests and diseases. Complex modules may have many open sections that could potentially harbour pests. A strategy such as plugging, covering and capping any openings is recommended. The size of the structures also poses a risk of cross contamination during road transport and procedures to reduce the risk of this should be addressed. PAMs transported on vessels above deck increases the risks of hitchhiker contamination. Cover cargo and implement preventative pest control measures on board vessels to reduce the risk.

Wind turbines

A range of Biosecurity Risk Material (BRM) has been found on previous consignments of wind turbine components. Most BRM has been found in and around the turbine blades and nose cones. Protective wrappings applied to the blades, if not sealed properly can collect water (a potential insect breeding source) and trap other BRM. All turbine parts must be inspected thoroughly and should be protected/ stored in such a way to prevent contamination. Signs of human activity have been observed inside large components including foodstuffs and faeces. It is important to ensure that access to cargo during construction and storage is controlled to avoid such contamination occurring and that all relevant personnel are aware of biosecurity requirements. As with all break bulk, it is also important to ensure that any gluts, supports and other packaging materials do not pose a biosecurity risk.

Pipes

Open ends of pipes can provide an access point for animals such as rodents, insects, and reptiles to hide, and for water to pool and create a breeding site for mosquitoes. Pipes should be flushed out then capped or sealed to prevent incursions. All materials used to pack, seal and secure pipes should be free of biosecurity concerns.

Strategies to Facilitate Clearance

It is important to integrate Biosecurity Management Strategies into all aspects of a project supply chain including design, contracting, purchasing, construction, transport, import and installation.

Biosecurity Management Strategy (BMS) Framework

Importers of oversize break bulk and cargo intended to be landed at ports that have limited infrastructure or are non–proclaimed, are encouraged to consider quality assurance measures across the entire supply chain. DAFF recommends the adoption of a BMS framework. Adequate planning will minimise the biosecurity risks to Australia and deliver major benefits by minimizing costs and schedule delays. The development and implementation of a BMS framework is particularly important for projects that intend to discharge cargo at remote locations.

The type of information and level of detail required to be contained in the BMS will depend on the complexity and nature of the proposed imports. A project may have more than one BMS at different stages of the project. For example, a BMS may be specific to a type of cargo, export location or landing place. A BMS may be an overarching document that encompasses procedures and a range of other documents in relation to biosecurity activities including the preparation of cargo, loading, inspection procedures, QAP guidelines etc. Plans should also consider contingency procedures for unexpected circumstances such as cyclones. A template for developing your own BMS can be downloaded below.

BMS template –Industry consultation in progress

Checklists

Industry cargo inspection

All components of a consignment should be inspected to ensure they are free from Biosecurity Risk Material, including packaging. This is essential prior to and during loading onto a vessel, and is also a useful procedure to apply throughout the complete supply chain including:

• at supplier’s premises
• at the fabrication yard
• during transit
• on-arrival in Australia.

Being proactive and identifying contamination risk issues early means corrective action can be taken to avoid problems on-arrival in Australia. The Industry Cargo Inspection Report checklist can be downloaded and contains suggestions on some issues for consideration but will be dependent on the nature of the cargo. It must be noted that completing the Industry Cargo Inspection Report checklist will have no impact on whether cargo will be inspected on arrival into Australia.

Industry Cargo Inspection Report – Industry consultation in progress

Vessel cleanliness

Vessel cleanliness is an important aspect of the supply chain pathway. There is little value in implementing off–shore Biosecurity Management Strategies if consignments can become contaminated in–transit on unsanitary transport vessels. Vessel inspections should be carried out by suitably qualified third party inspectors e.g. Marine Warranty Surveyors. Any issues should be identified and rectified prior to loading. The Industry Vessel Cleanliness Report checklist will assist in providing assurance to the exporter of the vessel’s biosecurity integrity. The checklist lists the areas to target during vessel inspections and the typical types of contamination that may be detected. It must be noted that completing the Industry Vessel Cleanliness Report checklist will have no impact on whether a vessel will be inspected on arrival into Australia.

Industry Vessel Cleanliness Report Checklist – Industry consultation in progress

Sail–Away Report – Industry consultation in progress

The Sail–Away Report provides important information to DAFF on an impending import. To simplify the process for both DAFF and the importer, it is recommended that the Project Proponent collate all the following listed requirements and submit the documents to the relevant DAFF regional office on departure. Any delays in DAFF receiving this information could result in delays to discharge of cargo. Information should include (where applicable):

• Cargo Inspection Reports
• Vessel Cleanliness Report
• Sailing plan
• Stowage plan (if applicable)
• Anchorage position (if applicable) e.g. barges discharging off-shore
• Bill of lading
• Cargo manifests
• Treatment certificates e.g. ISPM or fumigation certificates
• Packing declarations (if applicable).

Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S)

DAFF is committed to ensuring its personnel operate in a healthy and safe environment. All equipment and materials used, and processes conducted must meet Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 requirements to promote the occupational health and safety of persons employed by the Australian government, Australian authorities and certain licensed corporations, and for related purposes e.g. site inductions, stands and facilities to conduct DAFF inspections (Covaris or tailgate stands, inspection areas, and Elevating Work Platforms (EWPs) i.e. cherry pickers, boom lifts, scissor lifts must be well maintained and certified).

Biosecurity Awareness Training

All personnel involved in the supply chain should be provided with information clearly explaining the importance of biosecurity risk management and this information should form part of the induction process for any new personnel. Relevant suppliers, contractors and company personnel may also require more detailed training in Biosecurity Risk Material detection, identification, cleaning techniques and reporting requirements. As part of the ‘shared responsibility’ between industry and DAFF, biosecurity awareness should form a fundamental part of the culture of an importing organisation.

Company Contact

To ensure consistency of information transfer, it is recommended that companies provide a designated, suitably trained staff member as a biosecurity coordinator. This will provide DAFF with a central point of contact for discussion in relation to import requirements and the development and implementation of a BMS.

Records, Reporting and Review

All systems in place should be reviewed regularly to monitor and improve the effectiveness of the biosecurity management procedures. Good record keeping is important, as is early reporting of biosecurity concerns to DAFF. Incident reporting protocols are key components of any quality control system. Detections of Biosecurity Risk Material on imported goods should be reported immediately to the local DAFF office on 1800 020 504.

Other Useful Information

Fees and Charges

There are a number of fees associated with the provision of biosecurity inspection services for example, lodgement of quarantine entries, inspection, treatment of imported goods, fumigation monitoring of imports, applications and assessments of import permits, performance of audits to ensure compliance and registration of premises for the purposes of performing biosecurity inspections. These fees are outlined under DAFF Fees and Charging Guidelines of the Import Clearance Program.

The DAFF Seaports Program also has a range of fees for the inspection and clearance of vessels including travel and accommodation for DAFF officers to attend the clearance of vessels. These are located under Seaports Program Charging Guidelines.

Other Agencies

It is recommended that other Australian agencies and organisations be engaged early, including the:

• Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
• Department of Infrastructure and Transport
• Department of Immigration and Citizenship
• Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
• Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Chambers of Commerce Australia.

Communication with DAFF

Early engagement with DAFF is an important step in meeting Australia’s biosecurity management requirements and will also help to ensure that these requirements are identified and addressed at each phase of the project, both overseas and domestically.

We welcome enquiries from major project proponents and project managers to the DAFF Major Industry Project (MIP) team.

MIP team contact details

Phone: +61 2 6272 3091 or Email the Major Industry Projects Team

The MIP team can provide general advice on biosecurity matters, supply reference material and assist in the development of the project’s BMS.

It is important that project proponents identify a preferred point of contact to liaise with DAFF and project personnel on biosecurity matters. Responsibilities may include:

• providing the local DAFF office with shipping schedules and manifests
• arranging inspection bookings
• providing office space and accommodation to officers in remote areas
• arranging site inductions and transport around sites, when required
• providing labour, cleaning and inspection equipment to facilitate inspections and treatments
• ensuring sites and equipment are maintained appropriately
• managing quarantine waste
• ensuring staff are adequately biosecurity awareness trained
• implementing any directions made by a Quarantine Officer.