The import and export of biological goods is heavily regulated in Australia.
Overseen by the Department of Agriculture, measures under the Biosecurity Act 2015 are designed to prevent, respond to and recover from pests and diseases that threaten the Australian economy and environment. To achieve this, the Department of Agriculture inspects and clears imported biological goods and goods that may be contaminated with biological agents before they are allowed into Australia.
In addition, to protect Australia's high standing in the export market, certain biological products must be cleared by the Department of Agriculture before prior to shipment overseas. In some cases, interstate transport of biological goods is also restricted.
Many biological goods are also subject to strict domestic and international transport regulations, requiring specific packaging, labelling and transport conditions to be adhered to when transporting by road, air or sea.
