What the instrument does
A federal legal notice amends the List of Specimens Taken to be Suitable for Live Import under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The amendment adds 72 species of rainbowfish from the genus Melanotaenia to the official list of animals allowed to be imported alive into Australia.
The instrument is already in force as of 2 November 2026.
Who this affects
This mainly affects businesses involved in importing live fish, such as aquarium suppliers, pet retailers and wholesalers dealing in ornamental fish.
Key actions
- If importing or selling live rainbowfish, check the updated List of Specimens Taken to be Suitable for Live Import to confirm which of the 72 Melanotaenia species are now approved
- Confirm any import plans or supplier orders reference the correct species names now permitted under this list
- Keep records showing compliance with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 if importing these species
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.