The obligation
The Act grants biosecurity officers broad enforcement powers including inspection, detention, seizure and biosecurity orders not available under the former Quarantine Act 1908.
Under the Biosecurity Act 2015, the department holds enforcement and compliance powers significantly exceeding those under the Quarantine Act 1908. These include powers to direct biosecurity measures, impose biosecurity orders, conduct assessments of goods and conveyances, and apply civil and criminal penalties. Duty holders include importers, exporters, vessel/aircraft operators, and biosecurity industry participants.
- What
- The Act grants biosecurity officers broad enforcement powers including inspection, detention, seizure and biosecurity orders not available under the former Quarantine Act 1908.
- Source
- agriculture.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Compliance and Enforcement Powers is a WHS requirement set out in Biosecurity Act 2015 (FEDERAL). The relevant provision is Biosecurity Act 2015 > Compliance and Enforcement.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Compliance and Enforcement Powers is a WHS obligation under Biosecurity Act 2015 (FEDERAL). In short, The Act grants biosecurity officers broad enforcement powers including inspection, detention, seizure and biosecurity orders not available under the former Quarantine Act 1908.
What changed recently?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Compliance and Enforcement Powers was last updated on 26 August 2026.
