Agricultural Export Legislation – Release of the Exposure Draft Export Control Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2020

The Australian Government is making improvements to its agricultural export legislation. A new legislative framework for Australia's agricultural exports will commence on 28 March 2021, comprising the Export Control Act 2020 (the Act) and the Export Control Rules 2020.

The Australian Government has released an Exposure Draft Export Control Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2020 (the Bill) for consultation. The Bill proposes minor amendments to the Act to support implementation of the new legislation:

- fit and proper person test for variations of registrations and alterations of establishments
- notices of intention (NOI) to export
- requirements for export permits
- review of decisions relating to tariff quota entitlements
- incorporation of documents in the Rules.
The Bill and supporting information are available on the Department of Agriculture, Water  and the Environment's website - https://www.agriculture.gov.au/market-access-trade/improving-export-legislation.Trading partners can review the Bill and supporting information, and make submissions until 26 October 2020.

The focus for consultation with stakeholders, including trading partners, is to ensure the new legislation 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.