DAFF Releases Updated Inorganic Fertiliser Management Policies: What Importers Need to Know

Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has released updated policy documents governing the importation of inorganic fertilisers, including both chemical and mined products. These changes strengthen Australia’s biosecurity framework and introduce clearer, more structured requirements for offshore manufacturers, exporters, and Australian importers.

We’ve noticed an increase in demand for fertiliser, from alternative sources with the ongoing middle east conflict, so perhaps this is a timely review. For businesses importing fertiliser into Australia, understanding these updates is essential to maintaining compliance and avoiding costly delays at the border.

Why the Policy Has Been Updated

Inorganic fertilisers can carry biosecurity risks such as soil, plant material, seeds, and hitchhiker pests. The updated policy aims to ensure these risks are managed consistently across all supply chains — whether fertiliser arrives in bulk vessels or containerised shipments.

The new framework provides a more transparent, auditable system for offshore manufacturers and importers, while supporting faster clearance for compliant suppliers.

Key Elements of the Updated Policy

1. Clearer Scope Across All Inorganic Fertilisers

The policy applies to a wide range of products, including:

• Chemical fertilisers such as urea, MAP, DAP, ammonium nitrate, potash, and calcium nitrate
• Mined fertilisers such as rock phosphate, sulphur, guano‑based products, and mineralised humic fertilisers

Both bulk and containerised consignments fall under the updated requirements.

2. Offshore Entity Registration

Manufacturers and processors supplying fertiliser to Australia must now meet defined eligibility criteria, including:

• documented quality management systems
• contamination control procedures
• traceability of raw materials
• independent third‑party facility audits

DAFF may suspend or remove entities from the approved list if they fail to comply.

3. Strengthened Pre‑Shipment Requirements

Before fertiliser is loaded for export to Australia, suppliers must complete:

• manufacturer declarations
• loading inspection reports
• sampling and testing (where required)
• marine surveyor verification for bulk cargo
• vessel schedule submissions

These documents must be provided to DAFF prior to arrival.

4. On‑Arrival Biosecurity Intervention

DAFF may conduct:

• physical inspections
• sampling
• contamination assessments
• verification of offshore documentation

Consignments that do not meet requirements may face delays, additional treatment, or re‑export.

5. Reduced Risk Classification Pathway

Manufacturers who meet DAFF’s strict criteria can apply for a Reduced Risk Classification (RRC). Benefits include:

• lower levels of inspection
• faster clearance
• reduced compliance costs

DAFF publishes a list of approved RRC manufacturers (with consent), covering multiple countries.

6. Updated Implementation Timeline

The updated import conditions take effect 30 April 2026. Any fertiliser loaded on or after this date must comply with the new policy. Consignments already on the water before this date will be assessed under previous conditions.

What Importers Should Do Now

To prepare for the updated requirements, importers should:

• review supply chains and confirm whether offshore manufacturers are registered
• ensure all pre‑shipment documentation aligns with the new templates
• check BICON for commodity‑specific import conditions
• plan for potential changes in inspection levels or clearance times

Early engagement with suppliers will help avoid disruptions once the new policy is fully in effect.

For further information please contact the Transitainer team.

See below link to DAFF’s industry advice;

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/industry-advice/2026/56-2026