Imported biosecurity materials

Biosecurity is a critical part of the government’s efforts to prevent, respond to and recover from pests and diseases that threaten the economy and environment.

If you want to import biological materials or environmental samples from overseas or interstate, they will be subject to biosecurity regulation.

How do I import biological materials or environmental samples into Curtin?

There are two levels of biosecurity that apply to Western Australia:

State biosecurity between WA and the Eastern States of Australia

Federal biosecurity between Australia and overseas

You might need import permits from both Federal and State biosecurity, or you might just need a Federal biosecurity import permit, or you might not need any permits at all.
Follow the steps below to figure out which kinds of permit(s) you need to apply for, or contact your Biosafety Partner for assistance.

Imported Biosecurity Materials

Step 1: Search the Department of Agriculture BICON database for Federal import requirements.

Step 2: Read the import conditions for your commodity to figure out if you need to apply for an Import Permit. If you don’t require an Import Permit then just follow the import conditions.

Step 3: If you do require an Import Permit then you must register (top right of the BICON webpage) to join the existing Curtin multiple user account. The Organisation Name is “Curtin University” and the Account Administrator’s Email is “bernadette.bradley@curtin.edu.au”.

Step 4: Once you’ve been confirmed as a user, you can apply for an Import Permit. You’ll need a credit card. Sometimes you may need to bring the materials into an Approved Arrangement facility – ask your lab manager and/or contact your Biosafety Partner for assistance to either get access to an AA facility or to get the approval for your own lab.

Western Australian biosecurity

Step 1: Search the WA Organisms List to find the legal status of the organism you want to import. If it’s listed, you’ll be able to see any control requirements required. If it’s unlisted or requires a permit then you’ll need to apply for an Import Permit.

Step 2. Check the Import Requirements associated with the organism. Fulfil all the listed requirements.
If you need more information, call Quarantine WA on +61 8 9334 1800 or contact your Biosafety Partner.

Legislation governing the use of biosecurity materials in Australia

There are several Federal and State Acts of biosecurity legislation, and it’s illegal to import any biological material without adhering to all the Guidelines and Regulations associated with those Acts.