Wildlife trade and conservation
The trade in plants and animals or their products to/from Australia is regulated under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the Act). Trade in wildlife or wildlife products is allowed so long as the conditions specified in the Act and regulations are met. Different conditions apply to the import or export of wildlife specimens and products for an eligible commercial purpose or for an eligible non-commercial purpose. Only the trade for non-commercial purposes is considered here. For more information read the Guide to the import and export of wildlife specimens for non-commercial purposes
Under the EPBC Act, non-commercial trade will be allowed where the wildlife specimens are to be used for specified purposes (and subject to certain conditions being met). The eligible purposes are:
Import or export of specimens for scientific research purposes will be permitted where the object of the research is to further the understanding or knowledge of a taxa, to conserve biodiversity, or to maintain and/or improve human health. An export permit will not be required to exchange specimens between scientific institutions if they are registered with the Department of the Environment and Water Resources. Read more about the Registration of scientific organisations for non-commercial loan, donation or exchange of scientific specimens between Australian and overseas institutions
Import or export of specimens may be permitted for the purpose of education or training.
Import or export of specimens may be permitted for the purpose of exhibition, including display at zoos. Note: Specific conditions apply to the export from Australia of koalas and macropods (Kangaroos, Wallabies and allies).
Approval to import or export live animals and plants may be granted for specimens that are to be used in a program designed to establish or maintain a breeding population. The program will need to qualify as an approved cooperative conservation program. More about Cooperative conservation programs
Live pet animals of certain Australian native species and CITES listed species may be imported or exported with a permit. In the case of native Australian animals the species proposed for export must be included on the List of native household pet animals
The export or import of personal items may be possible under a permit provided that the item is not a live specimen. In order to qualify as a personal item, a specimen must be personally owned by the exporter or importer, not live, not an object of trade and not listed under Appendix 1 to CITES.
Permits that allow the export and re-import (and vice versa) can be issued for specimens that are to be used as a travelling exhibition. This provision enables specimens used in displays, performances, promotions and shows to temporarily leave or enter Australia provided that the specimen, and any progeny born during the exhibition, will return to its place of origin.
If you are seeking a permit to undertake any of the above activities, you will need to complete a supplementary form and forward it with your permit application to the Department of the Environment and Water Resources.
