Biosecurity note for industry

Domestic Imports - Notice of change to treatment protocols for imported produce

Are you aware of the change to treatment protocols issued on 15 May 2023? Since then, an extension of the implementation date for changes to treatment on arrival in Western Australia to 17 November 2023.  Hopefully, these changes will reduce the risk of pests and diseases in Western Australia.

Who do these changes affect?

  • Importers of produce into Western Australia (WA).

  • Exporters of produce from other states and territories to WA.

  • Treatment operators within all states and territories.

Extension of implementation date to 17 November 2023

  • Fruit and vegetables entering WA must be treated before import in accordance with WA import requirements.

  • Treatment on arrival, as an alternative option to pre-export treatment, was implemented by WA in 2010, following a national agreement to provide equitable market access for producers in remote locations where access to treatment options was limited.

  • Treatment on arrival in WA must be authorised by an Inspector and is subject to written approval.

  • A review of the arrangements for treatment on arrival conducted by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) identified an unacceptable level of biosecurity risk to WA.

The changes' implementation date has been extended to give businesses additional time to investigate and implement alternative options.

This change will come into effect on 17 November 2023. Any import approvals issued between this notification and the date of effect will expire no later than 17th November 2023.

Issued by

Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (WA)

Nardia Stacy