What this instrument does
The federal government has registered the Biosecurity (Reportable Biosecurity Incidents) Determination 2026, a legislative instrument administered by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under the Biosecurity Act 2015. The determination came into force on 20 August 2026.
What the determination covers
The determination sets out what counts as a reportable biosecurity incident. The instrument identifies two categories of incident:
- Incidents arising from biosecurity risks associated with relevant goods.
- Incidents arising from interactions between relevant goods and other goods or things.
The determination also sets out the requirements for reporting those incidents.
Replacement of the 2016 determination
The 2026 determination replaces the Biosecurity (Reportable Biosecurity Incidents) Determination 2016. The earlier determination is repealed by Schedule 1 of the new instrument. Part 3 of the instrument contains application and saving provisions relevant to the transition from the 2016 determination.
Where to find further detail
The full text of the determination is available at the Federal Register of Legislation: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01078. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry can be contacted directly for questions about whether a biosecurity incident must be reported under the new rules.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.