Agricultural Export Legislation – Commencement of Australia's new agricultural export legislation

The Australian Government is introducing a new legal framework for Australia's agricultural exports.The new export legislation commences on 28 March 2021 at 3am Australian Eastern Daylight Time and consists of the:Export Control Act 2020 (the Act) which sets out the overarching legal framework for the regulation of exported goods including food and agricultural products from Australia.·       Export Control Rules 2021 (the Rules) which are the legislative instruments that set out the operational requirements that must be met to export specific goods from Australia (eg meat). The Rules must be read in conjunction with the Act.The new legislation streamlines and consolidates the existing export-related requirements included in more than 20 Acts and 40 pieces of delegated legislation. The benefits of the new legislation include that it will:·       be more relevant, responsive and efficient for exporters, farmers and other primary producers·       provide strong regulation, while removing duplication and ensuring consistency across commodities where possible·       clarify and simplify regulatory requirements, such as those that relate to authorised officers.It will also continue to ensure:·       exported goods meet importing country requirements·       compliance with government and relevant industry standards·       traceability through the exports supply chain where required·       the integrity of goods and the accuracy of applied trade descriptions and official marks.The department has consulted at length with its stakeholders, including trading partners to ensure the improved legal framework is clear and fit for purpose – supporting growth and innovation, while maintaining the standards our trading partners expect.There is no change to Australia's commitment to meet the importing requirements of our trading partners, and the improved legislation will continue to meet Australia's international obligations, including those under the SPS agreement.The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment's website is being updated for the commencement of the new legislation. From 28 March 2021, our Improved Agricultural Export Legislation web page will include the latest information on Australia's new agricultural export legislation, including links to the Export Control Act 2020, the Export Control Rules 2021 and supporting information sheets.Please review this information and refer any questions about the new legislation to the Australian Government via the Australian SPS Notification Authority.