The obligation
The Biosecurity Act 2015 is the principal federal law managing biosecurity risks to human, animal and plant health in Australia, replacing the Quarantine Act 1908.
Commenced 16 June 2016. Administered jointly by DAFF and the Department of Health. The Act imposes obligations on importers, exporters, vessel/aircraft operators, biosecurity industry participants and biosecurity workers. It grants enforcement and compliance powers (inspection, seizure, biosecurity orders) not available under the former Quarantine Act 1908. Current compiled version is No. 19 (as at 1 January 2025, C2025C00015).
- What
- The Biosecurity Act 2015 is the principal federal law managing biosecurity risks to human, animal and plant health in Australia, replacing the Quarantine Act 1908.
- Source
- legislation.gov.au
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federal
biosecurity
import-export
human-health
animal-health
plant-health
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Overview and Key Obligations is a WHS requirement set out in Biosecurity Act 2015 (FEDERAL). The relevant provision is Biosecurity Act 2015.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Overview and Key Obligations is a WHS obligation under Biosecurity Act 2015 (FEDERAL). In short, The Biosecurity Act 2015 is the principal federal law managing biosecurity risks to human, animal and plant health in Australia, replacing the Quarantine Act 1908.
What changed recently?
Biosecurity Act 2015 — Overview and Key Obligations was last updated on 26 August 2026.
