What has changed
The federal government has amended the List of Exempt Native Specimens Instrument 2001 to add provisions relating to Australia's High Seas Permits. The amendment commenced on 8 October 2026.
The amendment is administered by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
What the instrument covers
The amendment adds provisions relating to Australia's High Seas Permits to the existing List of Exempt Native Specimens Instrument 2001. The source does not specify which species, permit types, or industries are affected beyond what is indicated in the instrument title.
Key actions
- Businesses that export, import, or trade in native specimens - including wildlife, plants, or biological material - can check the updated List of Exempt Native Specimens Instrument 2001 at https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L01375 to see if their activities are affected.
- Businesses that hold or apply for High Seas Permits under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 can read the full instrument text and explanatory statement at the same URL to understand what has changed.
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.