Contents
Chapter 5—Conservation of biodiversity and heritage i
Part 13—Species and communities i
Division 5—Conservation advice, recovery plans, threat abatement plans and wildlife conservation plans 1
Subdivision AA—Approved conservation advice 1
266B..... Approved conservation advice for listed threatened species and listed threatened ecological communities 1
Subdivision A—Recovery plans and threat abatement plans 2
267........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision................................................. 2
268........ Compliance with recovery plans and threat abatement plans............ 3
269........ Implementing recovery and threat abatement plans........................... 3
269AA.. Decision whether to have a recovery plan.......................................... 4
269A..... Making or adopting a recovery plan................................................... 6
270........ Content of recovery plans.................................................................. 8
270A..... Decision whether to have a threat abatement plan........................... 10
270B..... Making or adopting a threat abatement plan.................................... 12
271........ Content of threat abatement plans................................................... 14
272........ Eradication of non‑native species..................................................... 15
273........ Ensuring plans are in force................................................................ 15
274........ Scientific Committee to advise on plans........................................... 16
275........ Consultation on plans....................................................................... 17
276........ Consideration of comments.............................................................. 18
277........ Adoption of State plans................................................................... 18
278........ Publication of plans.......................................................................... 18
279........ Variation of plans by the Minister................................................... 19
280........ Variation by a State or Territory of joint plans and plans adopted by the Minister 19
281........ Commonwealth assistance................................................................ 20
282........ Scientific Committee to advise on assistance................................... 20
283........ Plans may cover more than one species etc...................................... 21
283A..... Revoking a plan................................................................................ 21
284........ Reports on preparation and implementation of plans...................... 22
Subdivision B—Wildlife conservation plans 22
285........ Wildlife conservation plans.............................................................. 22
286........ Acting in accordance with wildlife conservation plans..................... 23
287........ Content of wildlife conservation plans............................................. 23
288........ Eradication of non‑native species..................................................... 24
289........ Scientific Committee to advise on scheduling of plans..................... 25
290........ Consultation on plans....................................................................... 25
291........ Consideration of comments.............................................................. 26
292........ Adoption of State plans................................................................... 26
293........ Publication, review and variation of plans........................................ 26
294........ Variation of plans by the Minister................................................... 27
295........ Variation by a State or Territory of joint plans and plans adopted by the Minister 27
296........ Commonwealth assistance................................................................ 28
297........ Plans may cover more than one species etc...................................... 28
298........ Reports on preparation and implementation of plans...................... 29
Subdivision C—Miscellaneous 29
299........ Wildlife conservation plans cease to have effect.............................. 29
300........ Document may contain more than one plan..................................... 29
300A..... State and Territory laws not affected............................................... 29
300B..... Assistance from the Scientific Committee........................................ 30
Division 6—Access to biological resources 31
301........ Control of access to biological resources.......................................... 31
Division 6A—Control of non‑native species 32
301A..... Regulations for control of non‑native species.................................. 32
Division 7—Aid for conservation of species in foreign countries 33
302........ Aid for conservation of species in foreign countries........................ 33
Division 8—Miscellaneous 34
303........ Regulations....................................................................................... 34
303A..... Exemptions from this Part................................................................ 34
303AA.. Conditions relating to accreditation of plans, regimes and policies.. 35
303AB.. Amended policies, regimes or plans taken to be accredited.............. 36
Part 13A—International movement of wildlife specimens 37
Division 1—Introduction 37
303BA.. Objects of Part.................................................................................. 37
303BAA................................................... Certain indigenous rights not affected 37
303BB... Simplified outline.............................................................................. 38
303BC... Definitions........................................................................................ 38
Division 2—CITES species 41
Subdivision A—CITES species and CITES specimens 41
303CA.. Listing of CITES species.................................................................. 41
303CB... Stricter domestic measures............................................................... 42
Subdivision B—Offences and permit system 43
303CC... Exports of CITES specimens........................................................... 43
303CD.. Imports of CITES specimens........................................................... 44
303CE... Applications for permits.................................................................. 45
303CF... Further information.......................................................................... 46
303CG.. Minister may issue permits.............................................................. 46
303CH.. Specific conditions relating to the export or import of CITES specimens for commercial purposes 48
303CI.... Time limit for making permit decision.............................................. 51
303CJ.... Duration of permits.......................................................................... 52
303CK.. Register of applications and decisions.............................................. 52
Subdivision C—Application of CITES 52
303CL... Application of CITES—Management Authority and Scientific Authority 52
303CM. Interpretation of CITES provisions................................................. 52
303CN.. Resolutions of the Conference of the Parties to CITES................... 53
Division 3—Exports of regulated native specimens 54
Subdivision A—Regulated native specimens 54
303DA.. Regulated native specimens.............................................................. 54
303DB.. Listing of exempt native specimens.................................................. 54
303DC.. Minister may amend list................................................................... 55
Subdivision B—Offence and permit system 56
303DD.. Exports of regulated native specimens............................................. 56
303DE... Applications for permits.................................................................. 57
303DF... Further information.......................................................................... 58
303DG.. Minister may issue permits.............................................................. 58
303DH.. Time limit for making permit decision.............................................. 61
303DI.... Duration of permits.......................................................................... 61
303DJ... Register of applications and decisions.............................................. 61
Division 4—Imports of regulated live specimens 62
Subdivision A—Regulated live specimens 62
303EA... Regulated live specimens.................................................................. 62
303EB... Listing of specimens suitable for live import................................... 62
303EC... Minister may amend list................................................................... 63
Subdivision B—Assessments relating to the amendment of the list of specimens suitable for import 64
303ED... Amendment of list on the Minister’s own initiative........................ 64
303EE... Application for amendment of list................................................... 65
303EF... Requirement for assessments........................................................... 66
303EG... Timing of decision about proposed amendment............................... 66
303EH... Requesting further information......................................................... 67
303EI.... Notice of refusal of proposed amendment....................................... 67
303EJ.... Reviews............................................................................................ 67
Subdivision C—Offence and permit system 68
303EK... Imports of regulated live specimens................................................. 68
303EL... Applications for permits.................................................................. 68
303EM.. Further information.......................................................................... 68
303EN... Minister may issue permits.............................................................. 69
303EO... Time limit for making permit decision.............................................. 70
303EP... Duration of permits.......................................................................... 70
303EQ... Register of applications and decisions.............................................. 70
Subdivision D—Marking of certain specimens for the purposes of identification 71
303ER... Object............................................................................................... 71
303ES.... Specimens to which Subdivision applies.......................................... 71
303ET... Extended meaning of marking.......................................................... 71
303EU... Secretary may make determinations about marking of specimens... 72
303EV... Offences............................................................................................ 73
303EW.. This Subdivision does not limit conditions of permits..................... 74
Division 5—Concepts relating to permit criteria 75
Subdivision A—Non‑commercial purpose exports and imports 75
303FA... Eligible non‑commercial purpose exports......................................... 75
303FB... Eligible non‑commercial purpose imports........................................ 75
303FC... Export or import for the purposes of research................................. 76
303FD... Export or import for the purposes of education.............................. 77
303FE... Export or import for the purposes of exhibition.............................. 77
303FF... Export or import for conservation breeding or propagation............. 78
303FG... Export or import of household pets................................................. 78
303FH... Export or import of personal items.................................................. 80
303FI.... Export or import for the purposes of a travelling exhibition............ 80
Subdivision B—Commercial purpose exports and imports 80
303FJ.... Eligible commercial purpose exports................................................ 80
303FK... Export or import from an approved captive breeding program........ 81
303FL... Export from an approved artificial propagation program................. 81
303FLA Export from an approved cultivation program................................. 82
303FM.. Export from an approved aquaculture program................................ 82
303FN... Approved wildlife trade operation................................................... 82
303FO... Approved wildlife trade management plan....................................... 84
303FP... Accredited wildlife trade management plan...................................... 86
303FQ... Consultation with State and Territory agencies............................... 88
303FR... Public consultation........................................................................... 88
303FRA Assessments..................................................................................... 89
303FS.... Register of declarations..................................................................... 89
303FT... Additional provisions relating to declarations.................................. 90
303FU... Approved commercial import program............................................ 91
Division 6—Miscellaneous 92
303GA.. Permit decision—controlled action, and action for which a non‑Part 13A permit is required 92
303GB.. Exceptional circumstances permit.................................................... 94
303GC.. Permit authorising the Secretary to export or import specimens..... 96
303GD.. Testing permit—section 303EE assessments................................... 98
303GE... Conditions of permits..................................................................... 100
303GF... Contravening conditions of a permit.............................................. 101
303GG.. Authorities under permits.............................................................. 102
303GH.. Transfer of permits......................................................................... 103
303GI.... Suspension or cancellation of permits............................................ 103
303GJ... Review of decisions........................................................................ 103
303GK.. Permit to be produced.................................................................... 104
303GL... Pre‑CITES certificate to be produced............................................. 105
303GM. Fees................................................................................................. 106
303GN.. Possession of illegally imported specimens................................... 106
303GO.. Regulations relating to welfare........................................................ 108
303GP... Cruelty—export or import of animals............................................ 109
303GQ.. Imports of specimens contrary to the laws of a foreign country... 110
303GR.. Evidence.......................................................................................... 110
303GS... Evidence of examiner...................................................................... 111
303GT.. Protection of witness...................................................................... 112
303GU.. Forms and declarations—persons arriving in Australia or an external Territory 113
303GV.. Saving of other laws........................................................................ 113
303GW. Part not to apply to certain specimens.......................................... 113
303GX.. Part not to apply to certain specimens used by traditional inhabitants 115
303GY.. When a specimen is lawfully imported............................................ 117
Part 14—Conservation agreements 118
304........ Object of this Part.......................................................................... 118
305........ Minister may enter into conservation agreements.......................... 118
306........ Content of conservation agreements............................................... 122
306A..... Conservation agreement may include declaration that actions do not need approval under Part 9 125
307........ Conservation agreements to be legally binding............................... 125
307A..... Conservation agreements may deal with remediation or mitigation measures 125
308........ Variation and termination of conservation agreements................... 127
309........ Publication of conservation agreements.......................................... 128
310........ List of conservation agreements..................................................... 129
311........ Commonwealth, State and Territory laws...................................... 129
312........ Minister must not give preference.................................................. 129
Part 15—Protected areas 130
Division 1—Managing World Heritage properties 130
Subdivision A—Simplified outline of this Division 130
313........ Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 130
Subdivision B—Seeking agreement on World Heritage listing 130
314........ Special provisions relating to World Heritage nominations............ 130
Subdivision C—Notice of submission of property for listing 131
315........ Minister must give notice of submission of property for listing etc. 131
Subdivision D—Plans for listed World Heritage properties in Commonwealth areas 132
316........ Making plans.................................................................................. 132
317........ Notice of plans............................................................................... 133
318........ Commonwealth compliance with plans.......................................... 133
319........ Review of plans every 5 years....................................................... 134
Subdivision E—Managing World Heritage properties in States and self‑governing Territories 134
320........ Application..................................................................................... 134
321........ Co‑operating to prepare and implement plans............................... 135
322........ Commonwealth responsibilities..................................................... 135
Subdivision F—Australian World Heritage management principles 135
323........ Australian World Heritage management principles........................ 135
Subdivision G—Assistance for protecting World Heritage properties 136
324........ Commonwealth assistance for protecting declared World Heritage properties 136
Division 1A—Managing National Heritage places 137
Subdivision A—Preliminary 137
324A..... Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 137
Subdivision B—The National Heritage List 138
324C..... The National Heritage List............................................................. 138
324D..... Meaning of National Heritage values............................................. 138
Subdivision BA—Inclusion of places in the National Heritage List: usual process 139
324E...... Simplified outline............................................................................ 139
324F...... Definitions...................................................................................... 140
324G..... Meaning of assessment period....................................................... 140
324H..... Minister may determine heritage themes for an assessment period 141
324J...... Minister to invite nominations for each assessment period........... 141
324JA... Minister to give nominations to Australian Heritage Council........ 142
324JB.... Australian Heritage Council to prepare proposed priority assessment list 143
324JC.... Matters to be included in proposed priority assessment list......... 144
324JD... Statement to be given to Minister with proposed priority assessment list 145
324JE.... The finalised priority assessment list............................................. 145
324JF.... Publication of finalised priority assessment list............................. 146
324JG... Australian Heritage Council to invite comments on places in finalised priority assessment list 146
324JH... Australian Heritage Council to assess places on finalised priority assessment list and give assessments to Minister........................................................................................................ 147
324JI..... Time by which assessments to be provided to Minister............... 149
324JJ..... Decision about inclusion of a place in the National Heritage List.. 150
Subdivision BB—Inclusion of places in the National Heritage List: emergency process 152
324JK... Simplified outline............................................................................ 152
324JL.... Minister may include place in National Heritage List if under threat 153
324JM.. Minister to ask Australian Heritage Council for assessment......... 154
324JN... Publication of listing of place and inviting comments.................... 155
324JO... Australian Heritage Council to assess place and give assessment to Minister 155
324JP.... Time by which assessments to be provided to Minister............... 156
324JQ... Decision about place remaining in the National Heritage List........ 156
Subdivision BC—Other provisions relating to the National Heritage List 159
324JR.... Co‑ordination with Scientific Committee—Council undertaking assessment 159
324JS.... Co‑ordination with Scientific Committee—Council given assessment to Minister 161
324K..... Listing process not affected by changing boundaries of a place..... 162
324L...... Removal of places or National Heritage values from the National Heritage List 162
324M.... Minister must consider advice of the Australian Heritage Council and public comments 163
324N..... Specifying one or more additional National Heritage values for a National Heritage place 164
324P...... National Heritage List must be publicly available.......................... 165
324Q..... Certain information may be kept confidential................................ 165
324R..... Disclosure of Australian Heritage Council’s assessments and advice 165
Subdivision C—Management plans for National Heritage places in Commonwealth areas 167
324S...... Management plans for National Heritage places in Commonwealth areas 167
324T..... Restriction on ability to make plans............................................... 168
324U..... Compliance with plans by the Commonwealth and Commonwealth agencies 169
324V..... Multiple plans in the same document............................................ 169
324W.... Review of plans at least every 5 years........................................... 169
Subdivision D—Management of National Heritage places in States and self‑governing Territories 170
324X..... Plans and Commonwealth responsibilities..................................... 170
Subdivision E—The National Heritage management principles 171
324Y..... National Heritage management principles...................................... 171
Subdivision F—Obligations of Commonwealth agencies 172
324Z..... Obligation to assist the Minister and the Australian Heritage Council 172
324ZA.. Protecting National Heritage values of places sold or leased.......... 172
Subdivision G—Assistance for protecting National Heritage places 173
324ZB... Commonwealth assistance for protecting National Heritage places 173
Subdivision H—Reviewing and reporting on the National Heritage List 174
324ZC... Reviewing and reporting on the National Heritage List.................. 174
Division 2—Managing wetlands of international importance 175
Subdivision A—Simplified outline of this Division 175
325........ Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 175
Subdivision B—Seeking agreement on Ramsar designation 176
326........ Commonwealth must seek agreement before designation............... 176
Subdivision C—Notice of designation of wetland 176
327........ Minister must give notice of designation of wetland etc................ 176
Subdivision D—Plans for listed wetlands in Commonwealth areas 177
328........ Making plans.................................................................................. 177
329........ Notice of plans............................................................................... 178
330........ Commonwealth compliance with plans.......................................... 179
331........ Review of plans every 5 years....................................................... 179
Subdivision E—Management of wetlands in States and self‑governing Territories 179
332........ Application..................................................................................... 179
333........ Co‑operating to prepare and implement plans............................... 180
334........ Commonwealth responsibilities..................................................... 180
Subdivision F—Australian Ramsar management principles 180
335........ Australian Ramsar management principles..................................... 180
Subdivision G—Assistance for protecting wetlands 181
336........ Commonwealth assistance for protecting declared Ramsar wetlands 181
Division 3—Managing Biosphere reserves 182
337........ Definition of Biosphere reserve..................................................... 182
338........ Planning for management of Biosphere reserves............................ 182
339........ Commonwealth activities in Biosphere reserves............................ 182
340........ Australian Biosphere reserve management principles.................... 182
341........ Commonwealth assistance for protecting Biosphere reserves....... 183
Division 3A—Managing Commonwealth Heritage places 184
Subdivision A—Preliminary 184
341A..... Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 184
341B..... Extension to places etc. outside the Australian jurisdiction........... 184
Subdivision B—The Commonwealth Heritage List 185
341C..... The Commonwealth Heritage List.................................................. 185
341D..... Meaning of Commonwealth Heritage values................................. 185
Subdivision BA—Inclusion of places in the Commonwealth Heritage List: usual process 186
341E...... Simplified outline............................................................................ 186
341F...... Definitions...................................................................................... 187
341G..... Meaning of assessment period....................................................... 187
341H..... Minister to invite nominations for each assessment period........... 188
341J...... Minister to give nominations to Australian Heritage Council........ 188
341JA... Australian Heritage Council to prepare proposed priority assessment list 190
341JB.... Matters to be included in proposed priority assessment list......... 191
341JC.... Statement to be given to Minister with proposed priority assessment list 191
341JD... The finalised priority assessment list............................................. 192
341JE.... Publication of finalised priority assessment list............................. 192
341JF.... Australian Heritage Council to invite comments on places in finalised priority assessment list 193
341JG... Australian Heritage Council to assess places on finalised priority assessment list and give assessments to Minister........................................................................................................ 194
341JH... Time by which assessments to be provided to Minister............... 196
341JI..... Decision about inclusion of a place in the Commonwealth Heritage List 196
Subdivision BB—Inclusion of places in the Commonwealth Heritage List: emergency process 199
341JJ..... Simplified outline............................................................................ 199
341JK... Minister may include place in Commonwealth Heritage List if under threat 200
341JL.... Minister to ask Australian Heritage Council for assessment......... 201
341JM.. Publication of listing of place and inviting comments.................... 201
341JN... Australian Heritage Council to assess place and give assessment to Minister 202
341JO... Time by which assessments to be provided to Minister............... 203
341JP.... Decision about place remaining in the Commonwealth Heritage List 203
Subdivision BC—Other provisions relating to the Commonwealth Heritage List 206
341JQ... Co‑ordination with Scientific Committee—Council undertaking assessment 206
341JR.... Co‑ordination with Scientific Committee—Council given assessment to Minister 208
341K..... Listing process not affected by changing boundaries of a place..... 208
341L...... Removal of places or Commonwealth Heritage values from the Commonwealth Heritage List 209
341M.... Minister must consider advice of the Australian Heritage Council and public comments 210
341N..... Specifying one or more additional Commonwealth Heritage values for a Commonwealth Heritage place 211
341P...... Commonwealth Heritage List must be publicly available.............. 212
341Q..... Certain information may be kept confidential................................ 212
341R..... Disclosure of Australian Heritage Council’s assessments and advice 213
Subdivision C—Management plans for Commonwealth Heritage places 214
341S...... Management plans for Commonwealth Heritage places................ 214
341T..... Endorsing management plans for Commonwealth Heritage places 216
341U..... Restriction on ability to make plans............................................... 216
341V..... Compliance with plans by the Commonwealth and Commonwealth agencies 217
341W.... Multiple plans in the same document............................................ 217
341X..... Review of plans at least every 5 years........................................... 217
Subdivision D—The Commonwealth Heritage management principles 218
341Y..... Commonwealth Heritage management principles........................... 218
Subdivision E—Obligations of Commonwealth agencies 218
341Z..... Obligation to assist the Minister and the Australian Heritage Council 218
341ZA.. Heritage strategies........................................................................... 219
341ZB... Heritage assessments and registers................................................. 220
341ZC... Minimising adverse impact on heritage values............................... 220
341ZE... Protecting Commonwealth Heritage values of places sold or leased 221
Subdivision G—Assistance for protecting Commonwealth Heritage places 222
341ZG.. Commonwealth assistance for protecting Commonwealth Heritage places 222
Subdivision H—Reviewing and reporting on the Commonwealth Heritage List 222
341ZH.. Reviewing and reporting on the Commonwealth Heritage List...... 222
Division 4—Commonwealth reserves 224
Subdivision A—Simplified outline of this Division 224
342........ Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 224
Subdivision B—Declaring and revoking Commonwealth reserves 224
343........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 224
344........ Declaring Commonwealth reserves................................................. 225
345........ Extent of Commonwealth reserve................................................... 227
345A..... Commonwealth usage rights vest in Director................................. 227
346........ Content of Proclamation declaring Commonwealth reserve........... 227
347........ Assigning Commonwealth reserves and zones to IUCN categories 228
348........ Australian IUCN reserve management principles.......................... 228
350........ Revocation and alteration of Commonwealth reserves................... 229
351........ Report before making Proclamation............................................... 230
352........ What happens to Director’s usage rights when Commonwealth reserve is revoked 231
Subdivision C—Activities in Commonwealth reserves 232
353........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 232
354........ Activities that may be carried on only under management plan..... 232
354A..... Offences relating to activities that may only be carried on under management plan 234
355........ Limits on mining operations in Commonwealth reserves............... 238
355A..... Offence relating to mining operations............................................. 240
356........ Regulations controlling activities relating to Commonwealth reserves 242
356A..... Charges for activities in Commonwealth reserves.......................... 244
357........ Managing Commonwealth reserves while a management plan is not in operation 244
358........ Restriction on disposal of Director’s interests in Commonwealth reserves 245
359........ Prior usage rights relating to Commonwealth reserves continue to have effect 246
359A..... Traditional use of Commonwealth reserves by indigenous persons 246
359B..... Director’s approval of actions and mining operations when a management plan is not in operation 247
Subdivision D—Complying with management plans for Commonwealth reserves 249
361........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 249
362........ Commonwealth and Commonwealth agencies to comply with management plan for Commonwealth reserve 249
363........ Resolving disagreement between land council and Director over implementation of plan 250
364........ Resolving disagreement between Director and Board over implementation of plan 251
Subdivision E—Approving management plans for Commonwealth reserves 252
365........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 252
366........ Obligation to prepare management plans for Commonwealth reserves.. 253
367........ Content of a management plan for a Commonwealth reserve........ 254
368........ Steps in preparing management plans for Commonwealth reserves 256
369........ Resolving disagreements between Director and Board in planning process 259
370........ Approval of management plans for Commonwealth reserves........ 259
371........ Approved management plans are disallowable instruments........... 261
372........ Amendment and revocation of management plans for Commonwealth reserves 261
373........ Expiry of management plans for Commonwealth reserves............ 261
Subdivision F—Boards for Commonwealth reserves on indigenous people’s land 262
374........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 262
375........ Application..................................................................................... 262
376........ Functions of a Board for a Commonwealth reserve....................... 262
377........ Minister must establish Board if land council or traditional owners agree 263
378........ Altering the constitution of a Board or abolishing a Board............ 264
379........ Appointment of Board members.................................................... 265
379A..... Fit and proper person..................................................................... 266
380........ Terms and conditions..................................................................... 266
381........ Remuneration.................................................................................. 266
382........ Termination of appointments of Board members.......................... 267
383........ Procedure of a Board...................................................................... 269
Subdivision G—Special rules for some Commonwealth reserves in the Northern Territory or Jervis Bay Territory 270
384........ Simplified outline of this Subdivision............................................. 270
385........ Activities in Commonwealth reserve without management plan... 270
386........ What are the Kakadu region and the Uluru region?...................... 270
387........ No mining operations in Kakadu National Park............................. 271
388........ Establishment and development of townships in the Kakadu region and Uluru region 271
389........ Planning for townships................................................................... 272
390........ Special rules to protect Aboriginal interests in planning process... 273
390A..... Appointment of Northern Territory nominee to Board................. 275
Division 5—Conservation zones 277
390B..... Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 277
390C..... Object of this Division................................................................... 277
390D..... Proclamation of conservation zones............................................... 277
390E...... Regulating activities generally......................................................... 278
390F...... Charges for activities in conservation zones................................... 280
390G..... Other laws and regulations made for this Division......................... 280
390H..... Prior usage rights relating to conservation zones continue to have effect 280
390J...... Revoking and altering conservation zones...................................... 281
Chapter 5A—The List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia 283
Part 15A—The List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia 283
390K..... The List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia. 283
390L...... Inclusion of places in the List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia 283
390M.... Removal of places from the List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia or variation of statement of historic significance......................................................................... 283
390N..... Inviting comments from other Ministers before taking action....... 284
390P...... Minister may ask Australian Heritage Council for advice etc........ 284
390Q..... List of Overseas Places of Historic Significance to Australia to be publicly available 285
390R..... Disclosure of Australian Heritage Council’s assessments and advice 285
Chapter 6—Administration 286
Part 16—Precautionary principle and other considerations in making decisions 286
391........ Minister must consider precautionary principle in making decisions 286
391A..... Minister must consider information in the Register of the National Estate in making decisions 288
Part 17—Enforcement 289
Division 1—Wardens, rangers and inspectors 289
Subdivision A—Wardens and rangers 289
392........ Appointment of wardens and rangers............................................ 289
393........ Arrangements for certain officers or employees to exercise powers etc. of wardens or rangers 289
394........ Wardens ex officio........................................................................... 290
395........ Identity cards.................................................................................. 290
Subdivision B—Inspectors 290
396........ Appointment of inspectors............................................................ 290
397........ Inspectors ex officio........................................................................ 291
398........ Arrangements for State and Territory officers to be inspectors..... 291
399........ Identity cards.................................................................................. 292
Subdivision BA—Exercise of powers of authorised officers outside the territorial sea 293
399A..... Powers to be exercised consistently with UNCLOS...................... 293
Subdivision BB—Exercise of powers of authorised officers in relation to Great Barrier Reef Marine Park 293
399B..... Certain powers to be exercised only by certain authorised officers 293
Subdivision C—Miscellaneous 294
400........ Regulations may give wardens, rangers and inspectors extra powers, functions and duties 294
401........ Impersonating authorised officers and rangers............................... 294
402........ Offences against authorised officers and rangers............................ 295
Division 2—Boarding of vessels etc. and access to premises 297
403........ Boarding of vessels etc. by authorised officers.............................. 297
404........ Authorised officers to produce identification................................. 299
405........ Access to premises......................................................................... 300
406........ Powers of authorised officers......................................................... 301
406A..... Searches under paragraph 406(1)(ba)............................................. 303
406AA.. Taking things into possession........................................................ 304
406B..... Thing taken into possession is not a thing seized.......................... 305
Division 3—Monitoring of compliance 306
407........ Monitoring powers......................................................................... 306
407A..... Operation of electronic equipment at premises.............................. 307
407B..... Compensation for damage to electronic equipment........................ 310
408........ Monitoring searches with occupier’s consent................................ 310
409........ Monitoring warrants....................................................................... 312
409A..... Monitoring warrants by telephone or other electronic means........ 313
409B..... Executing officer to be in possession of warrant............................ 315
410........ Details of monitoring warrant to be given to occupier etc.............. 315
411........ Occupier entitled to be present during search................................ 316
412........ Announcement before entry........................................................... 316
412A..... Other powers when on premises under monitoring warrant.......... 317
Division 4—Search warrants 318
413........ When search warrants can be issued............................................... 318
414........ Statements in warrants................................................................... 319
415........ Powers of magistrate...................................................................... 321
416........ Warrants by telephone or other electronic means.......................... 321
417........ The things that are authorised by a search warrant........................ 323
418........ Availability of assistance, and use of force, in executing a warrant 326
418A..... Executing officer to be in possession of warrant............................ 326
419........ Details of warrant to be given to occupier etc................................ 326
420........ Specific powers available to person executing warrant.................. 327
421........ Use of equipment to examine or process things............................. 327
422........ Use of electronic equipment at premises........................................ 328
423........ Compensation for damage to electronic equipment........................ 330
424........ Copies of seized things to be provided.......................................... 331
425........ Occupier entitled to be present during search................................ 331
426........ Receipts for things seized under warrant....................................... 332
427........ Restrictions on personal searches................................................... 332
428........ When a thing is in the possession of a person................................ 332
Division 6—Arrest and related matters 333
430........ Powers of arrest.............................................................................. 333
431........ Power to conduct a frisk search of an arrested person................... 333
432........ Power to conduct an ordinary search of an arrested person........... 334
433........ Power to conduct search of arrested person’s premises................ 334
433A..... Interaction of this Division with Schedule 1.................................. 334
Division 6A—Provisions relating to detention of suspected foreign offenders 335
433B..... Provisions relating to detention of suspected foreign offenders..... 335
Division 7—Miscellaneous provisions about searches, entry to premises, warrants etc. 336
434........ Conduct of ordinary searches and frisk searches............................ 336
435........ Announcement before entry........................................................... 336
436........ Offence of making false statements in warrants............................. 336
437........ Offences relating to telephone warrants......................................... 336
438........ Retention of things seized under Division 4 or 6........................... 337
440........ Law relating to legal professional privilege not affected................. 338
441........ Other laws about search, arrest etc. not affected............................ 338
442........ Persons to assist authorised officers.............................................. 338
Division 8—Power to search goods, baggage etc. 340
443........ Power to search goods, baggage etc................................................ 340
Division 8A—Power to ask questions about specimens 341
443A..... Authorised officer may ask questions about the nature or origin of specimens 341
Division 9—Power to ask for names and addresses 343
444........ Authorised person may ask for person’s name and address.......... 343
Division 10—Seizure and forfeiture etc. 344
Subdivision AA—Seizure of specimens involved in a contravention of Part 13A 344
444A..... Seizure of specimens involved in a contravention of Part 13A...... 344
444B..... Notice about seizure....................................................................... 344
444C..... Applications for return of specimen.............................................. 345
444D..... Court action for return of specimen............................................... 345
444E...... Consignment of specimen with consent of owner.......................... 346
444G..... Retention of specimen.................................................................... 347
444H..... Forfeiture of specimen after end of retention period...................... 348
Subdivision AB—Seizure of things (other than specimens involved in a contravention of Part 13A) 349
445........ Seizure of things (other than specimens involved in a contravention of Part 13A) 349
446........ Retention of things seized under this Subdivision.......................... 350
Subdivision AC—Direction to deliver seizable items 352
447........ Direction to deliver seizable items.................................................. 352
Subdivision B—Disposal of seized items 352
449........ Immediate disposal of seized items................................................ 352
449A..... Disposal of seized items if Secretary cannot locate or identify person entitled etc. 354
Subdivision BA—Release of seized items to owner etc. 354
449BA.. Release of seized items to owner etc.............................................. 354
449BB... How this Part applies in relation to things released conditionally. 355
Subdivision C—Forfeiture of seized items 356
450........ Court‑ordered forfeiture: order by court dealing with offence proceedings 356
450A..... Court‑ordered forfeiture: other situations...................................... 357
450B..... Forfeiture of seized items by consent etc....................................... 357
451........ Dealings in forfeited items.............................................................. 358
452........ Delivery of forfeited items to the Commonwealth......................... 358
Subdivision F—Keeping of organisms or specimens that have been seized 359
453........ Keeping of organisms or specimens retained under this Part......... 359
454........ Recovery of costs of storing or keeping organisms or specimens.. 359
Subdivision G—Rescuing things 360
455........ Rescuing things............................................................................... 360
456........ Breaking or destroying things or documents to prevent seizure etc. 360
Subdivision H—Seizure of cages or containers 361
456AA.. Power to seize cages or containers containing seizable things........ 361
456AB.. Retention of seized cage or container............................................. 361
456AC.. Retention of non‑seizable things contained in seized cages or containers 362
Division 11—Powers of pursuit 364
457........ Power to pursue persons etc.......................................................... 364
Division 12—Environmental audits 365
458........ Directed environmental audits........................................................ 365
459........ Appointment of auditor and carrying out of audit......................... 366
460........ Nature of directed environmental audit.......................................... 366
461........ Audit reports.................................................................................. 367
462........ Directed environmental audits do not affect other audit obligations 368
Division 13—Conservation orders 369
Subdivision A—Simplified outline 369
463........ Simplified outline of this Division.................................................. 369
Subdivision B—Making and reviewing conservation orders 369
464........ Minister may make conservation orders........................................ 369
465........ Duration of conservation orders..................................................... 370
466........ Reviews of conservation orders...................................................... 370
467........ Publication of conservation orders................................................. 371
468........ Application for reconsideration of conservation orders or decisions on review 372
469........ Reconsideration of conservation orders and decisions on review... 372
Subdivision C—Complying with conservation orders 373
470........ Contravening conservation orders is an offence............................. 373
471........ Minister to consider proposed actions etc..................................... 374
472........ Contents of notices of advice......................................................... 374
473........ Review by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.......................... 374
474........ Assistance in complying with conservation orders........................ 375
Division 14—Injunctions 376
475........ Injunctions for contravention of the Act........................................ 376
476........ Injunctions for contraventions of conservation agreements........... 378
477........ Discharge of injunctions................................................................. 379
479........ Certain considerations for granting injunctions not relevant.......... 379
480........ Powers conferred are in addition to other powers of the Court..... 380
Division 14A—Federal Court’s power to make remediation orders 381
480A..... Remediation orders......................................................................... 381
480B..... Discharge of remediation orders..................................................... 382
480C..... Powers conferred are in addition to other powers of the Court..... 382
Division 14B—Minister’s power to make remediation determinations 383
Subdivision A—Making of remediation determinations 383
480D..... Minister may make remediation determination.............................. 383
480E...... Contents of a remediation determination........................................ 383
480F...... Notifying owners and occupiers of land of proposed remediation determination 384
480G..... Notifying that remediation determination has been made.............. 385
480H..... Duration of remediation determinations......................................... 385
480J...... Ministerial reconsideration of remediation determinations............ 385
Subdivision B—Federal Court may set aside remediation determination 386
480K..... Applying to Federal Court to have remediation determination set aside 386
Subdivision C—Complying with remediation determinations 387
480L...... Federal Court may order compliance with remediation determination 387
480M.... Civil penalty for contravention of remediation determination....... 387
Subdivision D—Variation or revocation of remediation determinations 388
480N..... Variation or revocation of remediation determination.................... 388
Division 15—Civil penalties 389
Subdivision A—Obtaining an order for a civil penalty 389
481........ Federal Court may order person to pay pecuniary penalty for contravening civil penalty provision 389
482........ What is a civil penalty provision?................................................... 390
483........ Contravening a civil penalty provision is not an offence............... 390
484........ Persons involved in contravening civil penalty provision.............. 390
485........ Recovery of a pecuniary penalty................................................... 390
Subdivision B—Civil penalty proceedings and criminal proceedings 391
486A..... Civil proceedings after criminal proceedings.................................. 391
486B..... Criminal proceedings during civil proceedings................................ 391
486C..... Criminal proceedings after civil proceedings.................................. 391
486D..... Evidence given in proceedings for penalty not admissible in criminal proceedings 391
Subdivision C—Enforceable undertakings relating to contraventions of Part 3 civil penalty provisions 392
486DA.. Acceptance of undertakings relating to contraventions of Part 3 civil penalty provisions 392
486DB.. Enforcement of undertakings.......................................................... 392
Division 15A—Notices to produce or attend 393
486E...... Application of Division.................................................................. 393
486F...... Minister may require person to provide information etc............... 393
486G..... Minister may require person to appear before Minister................ 394
486H..... Persons to whom notices may not be given................................... 394
486J...... Self‑incrimination............................................................................ 395
Division 16—Review of administrative decisions 396
487........ Extended standing for judicial review............................................. 396
488........ Applications on behalf of unincorporated organisations................ 397
Division 17—Duty to provide accurate information 398
489........ Providing false or misleading information to obtain approval or permit 398
490........ Providing false or misleading information in response to a condition on an approval or permit 399
491........ Providing false or misleading information to authorised officer etc. 399
Division 18—Liability of executive officers for corporations 401
493........ Who is an executive officer of a body corporate?........................... 401
494........ Civil penalties for executive officers of bodies corporate............... 401
495........ Criminal liability of executive officers of bodies corporate............ 401
496........ Did an executive officer take reasonable steps to prevent contravention? 403
Division 18A—Liability of landholders for other people’s actions 405
496A..... Who is a landholder?...................................................................... 405
496B..... Civil penalties for landholders........................................................ 405
496C..... Criminal liability of landholders..................................................... 405
496D..... Did a landholder take reasonable steps to prevent a contravention? 406
Division 19—Infringement notices 408
497........ Infringement notices....................................................................... 408
Division 20—Publicising contraventions 409
498........ Minister may publicise contraventions of this Act or the regulations 409
Division 21—Immunity of officers 410
498A..... Immunity of officers and assistants............................................... 410
Division 22—Conduct of directors, employees and agents 411
498B..... Conduct of directors, employees and agents.................................. 411
Part 18—Remedying environmental damage 414
499........ Commonwealth powers to remedy environmental damage............ 414
500........ Liability for loss or damage caused by contravention.................... 415
501........ Other powers not affected.............................................................. 416
Part 19—Organisations 417
Division 1—Establishment and functions of the Threatened Species Scientific Committee 417
502........ Establishment................................................................................. 417
503........ Functions of the Committee........................................................... 417
Division 2—Establishment and functions of the Biological Diversity Advisory Committee 418
504........ Establishment................................................................................. 418
505........ Functions of the Committee........................................................... 419
Division 2A—Indigenous Advisory Committee 420
505A..... Establishment................................................................................. 420
505B..... Functions of the Committee........................................................... 420
Division 3—Members and procedures of Committees 421
506........ Application..................................................................................... 421
507........ Terms and conditions..................................................................... 421
508........ Remuneration.................................................................................. 421
509........ Termination of appointments of Committee members.................. 422
510........ Procedure of a Committee.............................................................. 423
Division 4—Advisory committees 424
511........ Minister may establish advisory committees................................. 424
512........ Appointments................................................................................ 424
513........ Members of advisory committees.................................................. 424
514........ Committee procedure..................................................................... 424
Division 5—Director of National Parks 426
Subdivision A—Establishment, functions and powers 426
514A..... Continuation................................................................................... 426
514B..... Functions........................................................................................ 426
514C..... Powers............................................................................................ 427
514D..... Requirements relating to functions and powers............................. 428
Subdivision B—Constitution of Director of National Parks 429
514E...... Constitution.................................................................................... 429
514F...... Appointment.................................................................................. 429
514G..... Acting appointments...................................................................... 430
Subdivision C—Terms and conditions of appointment 430
514H..... Term of office................................................................................. 430
514J...... Remuneration.................................................................................. 430
514K..... Outside employment...................................................................... 431
514L...... Disclosure of interests.................................................................... 431
514M.... Leave of absence............................................................................. 431
514N..... Resignation..................................................................................... 431
514P...... Termination.................................................................................... 431
514Q..... Other terms and conditions............................................................ 432
Subdivision D—Australian National Parks Fund 432
514R..... Australian National Parks Fund..................................................... 432
514S...... Payments to Australian National Parks Fund................................ 432
514T..... Application of money.................................................................... 433
Subdivision E—Accountability 433
514U..... Modification of the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997 433
514V..... Extra matters to be included in annual report................................. 434
Subdivision F—Miscellaneous 434
514W.... Exemption from taxation................................................................ 434
514X..... Changes in office of Director.......................................................... 434
Part 20—Delegation 435
515........ Delegation....................................................................................... 435
515AA.. Delegation by Minister in relation to Great Barrier Reef Marine Park 435
515AB.. Delegation by Secretary in relation to Great Barrier Reef Marine Park 436
Part 20A—Publication of information on the internet 438
515A..... Publication of information on the internet...................................... 438
Part 21—Reporting 439
Division 1—Annual reports 439
516........ Annual report on operation of Act................................................. 439
516A..... Annual reports to deal with environmental matters....................... 439
Division 2—State of the environment reports 441
516B..... State of the environment reports.................................................... 441
Chapter 7—Miscellaneous 442
Part 22—Miscellaneous 442
517........ Determinations of species.............................................................. 442
517A..... Exemption for activities that might harm particular species introduced into particular areas 442
518........ Non‑compliance with time limits................................................... 444
519........ Compensation for acquisition of property..................................... 445
520........ Regulations..................................................................................... 446
520A..... Statements about the application of the Act.................................. 447
521........ Fees and charges must not be taxes................................................ 447
522........ Financial assistance etc. to be paid out of appropriated money.... 447
522A..... Review of operation of Act............................................................ 448
Chapter 8—Definitions 449
Part 23—Definitions 449
Division 1—Some definitions relating to particular topics 449
Subdivision A—Actions 449
523........ Actions............................................................................................ 449
524........ Things that are not actions............................................................. 449
524A..... Provision of grant funding is not an action..................................... 450
Subdivision B—Areas 450
525........ Commonwealth areas...................................................................... 450
Subdivision C—Entities 451
526........ Subsidiaries of bodies corporate..................................................... 451
Subdivision D—Criminal law 452
527........ Convictions..................................................................................... 452
Subdivision E—Specimens 452
527A..... Specimens....................................................................................... 452
527B..... Breeding in captivity...................................................................... 453
527C..... Artificial propagation..................................................................... 453
527D..... Things represented to be CITES specimens................................... 454
Subdivision F—Impacts 455
527E...... Meaning of impact.......................................................................... 455
Division 2—General list of definitions 456
528........ Definitions...................................................................................... 456
Schedule 1—Provisions relating to detention of suspected foreign offenders 480
Part 1—Preliminary 480
Division 1—Objects of this Schedule 480
1............ Main objects of this Schedule......................................................... 480
Division 2—Definitions 482
2............ Definitions...................................................................................... 482
Division 3—Appointment etc. of detention officers 483
3............ Minister may appoint persons to be detention officers................. 483
4............ Detention officers subject to directions.......................................... 483
5............ Detention officer etc. not liable to certain actions.......................... 483
Division 4—Approval of authorised officers and detention officers 484
6............ The Secretary may approve authorised officers and detention officers 484
7............ Persons who are authorised officers for purposes of the Migration Act 1958 are taken to be approved for this Schedule........................................................................................................ 484
Part 2—Detaining suspected foreign offenders 487
Division 1—Initial detention by an authorised officer 487
8............ Power to detain............................................................................... 487
9............ Relationship with Part IC of the Crimes Act 1914......................... 487
Division 2—Continued detention by a detention officer 488
10.......... Detention officer may detain person already detained by authorised officer 488
Division 3—Detention on behalf of an authorised officer or detention officer 489
11.......... Detention on behalf of an authorised officer or detention officer... 489
Division 4—Moving detainees 490
12.......... Power to move detainees................................................................ 490
Division 5—End of detention 491
13.......... End of detention............................................................................. 491
Division 6—Offence of escaping from detention 492
14.......... Escape from detention.................................................................... 492
Part 3—Searching and screening detainees and screening their visitors 493
Division 1—Searches of detainees 493
15.......... Searches of detainees...................................................................... 493
Division 2—Screening of detainees 495
16.......... Power to conduct a screening procedure........................................ 495
Division 3—Strip searches of detainees 496
17.......... Power to conduct a strip search..................................................... 496
18.......... Rules for conducting a strip search................................................. 498
Division 4—Keeping of things found by screening or strip search of detainees 501
19.......... Possession and retention of certain things obtained during a screening procedure or strip search 501
20.......... Approved officer may apply for a thing to be retained for a further period 502
21.......... Magistrate may order that thing be retained................................... 502
Division 5—Screening detainees’ visitors 504
22.......... Powers concerning entry to premises where detainee is detained.. 504
Division 6—Law applying to detainee in State or Territory prison etc. 506
23.......... Detainees held in State or Territory prisons or remand centres..... 506
Part 4—Detainees’ rights to facilities for obtaining legal advice etc. 507
24.......... Detainee may have access to certain advice, facilities etc............... 507
Part 5—Identifying detainees 508
Division 1—Preliminary 508
25.......... Definitions...................................................................................... 508
26.......... Meaning of personal identifier........................................................ 508
27.......... Limiting the types of identification tests that approved officers may carry out 510
Division 2—Identification of detainees 511
Subdivision A—Provision of personal identifiers 511
28.......... Detainees must provide personal identifiers.................................. 511
29.......... Approved officers must require and carry out identification tests 512
30.......... Information to be provided before carrying out identification tests 513
Subdivision B—How identification tests are carried out 513
31.......... General rules for carrying out identification tests.......................... 513
32.......... Use of force in carrying out identification tests............................. 514
33.......... Identification tests not to be carried out in cruel, inhuman or degrading manner etc. 516
34.......... Approved officer may get help to carry out identification tests.... 516
35.......... Identification tests to be carried out by approved officer of same sex as non‑citizen 516
36.......... Independent person to be present.................................................. 516
37.......... Recording of identification tests..................................................... 517
38.......... Retesting......................................................................................... 517
Subdivision C—Obligations relating to video recordings of identification tests 520
39.......... Definitions...................................................................................... 520
40.......... Accessing video recordings............................................................. 520
41.......... Authorising access to video recordings........................................... 521
42.......... Providing video recordings.............................................................. 522
43.......... Unauthorised modification of video recordings.............................. 523
44.......... Unauthorised impairment of video recordings................................ 523
45.......... Meanings of unauthorised modification and unauthorised impairment etc. 523
46.......... Destroying video recordings........................................................... 524
Division 3—Identification of minors and incapable persons 525
47.......... Minors............................................................................................ 525
48.......... Incapable persons........................................................................... 525
Division 4—Obligations relating to detainees’ identifying information 527
Subdivision A—Preliminary 527
49.......... Definitions...................................................................................... 527
50.......... Application..................................................................................... 528
Subdivision B—Accessing identifying information 528
51.......... Accessing identifying information.................................................. 528
52.......... Authorising access to identifying information................................ 528
Subdivision C—Disclosing identifying information 529
53.......... Disclosing identifying information................................................. 529
54.......... Authorising disclosure of identifying information to foreign countries etc. 531
Subdivision D—Modifying and impairing identifying information 532
55.......... Unauthorised modification of identifying information................... 532
56.......... Unauthorised impairment of identifying information..................... 533
57.......... Meanings of unauthorised modification and unauthorised impairment etc. 533
Subdivision E—Retaining identifying information 534
58.......... Identifying information may be indefinitely retained..................... 534
Part 6—Disclosure of detainees’ personal information 535
59.......... Disclosure of detainees’ personal information............................... 535
Notes 537
Division 5—Conservation advice, recovery plans, threat abatement plans and wildlife conservation plans
Subdivision AA—Approved conservation advice
266B Approved conservation advice for listed threatened species and listed threatened ecological communities
Minister to ensure there is approved conservation advice
(1) The Minister must ensure that there is approved conservation advice for each listed threatened species (except one that is extinct or that is a conservation dependent species), and each listed threatened ecological community, at all times while the species or community continues to be listed.
(2) For this purpose, approved conservation advice is a document, approved in writing by the Minister (and as changed from time to time in accordance with subsection (3)), that contains:
(a) a statement that sets out:
(i) the grounds on which the species or community is eligible to be included in the category in which it is listed; and
(ii) the main factors that are the cause of it being so eligible; and
(b) either:
(i) information about what could appropriately be done to stop the decline of, or support the recovery of, the species or community; or
(ii) a statement to the effect that there is nothing that could appropriately be done to stop the decline of, or support the recovery of, the species or community.
Changing approved conservation advice
(3) The Minister may, in writing, approve changes to approved conservation advice.
Consultation with Scientific Committee
(4) If the Minister proposes to approve a document as approved conservation advice, the Minister must consult the Scientific Committee about the document, unless its content is substantially the same as material that the Committee has previously provided to the Minister.
(5) If the Minister proposes to approve a change to approved conservation advice, the Minister must consult the Scientific Committee about the change, unless the change is substantially the same as a change that the Scientific Committee has previously advised the Minister should be made.
Publication requirements
(6) If the Minister approves a document as approved conservation advice, the Minister must:
(a) within 10 days of the approval of the document, publish the approved conservation advice on the internet; and
(b) comply with any other publication requirements of the regulations.
(7) If the Minister approves a change to approved conservation advice, the Minister must:
(a) within 10 days of the approval of the change, publish the advice, as changed, on the internet; and
(b) comply with any other publication requirements of the regulations.
Instruments of approval are not legislative instruments
(8) An instrument of approval under subsection (2) or (3) is not a legislative instrument.
Subdivision A—Recovery plans and threat abatement plans
267 Simplified outline of this Subdivision
The following is a simplified outline of this Subdivision:
Recovery plans for listed threatened species and ecological communities and threat abatement plans for key threatening processes bind the Commonwealth and Commonwealth agencies.
The Minister need ensure that a recovery plan is in force for a listed threatened species or ecological community only if the Minister decides to have a recovery plan. The Minister must decide whether to have a recovery plan for the species or community within 90 days after it becomes listed. The Minister may, at any other time, decide whether to have such a plan.
The Minister need ensure a threat abatement plan is in force for a key threatening process only if the Minister decides that a plan is a feasible, effective and efficient way of abating the process. The Minister must consult before making such a decision.
A recovery plan or threat abatement plan can be made by the Minister alone or jointly with relevant States and Territories, or the Minister can adopt a State or Territory plan. There must be public consultation and advice from the Scientific Committee about the plan, regardless of how it is made or adopted.
268 Compliance with recovery plans and threat abatement plans
A Commonwealth agency must not take any action that contravenes a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan.
269 Implementing recovery and threat abatement plans
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the Commonwealth must implement a recovery plan or threat abatement plan to the extent to which it applies in Commonwealth areas.
(2) If a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan applies outside Commonwealth areas in a particular State or self‑governing Territory, the Commonwealth must seek the co‑operation of the State or Territory with a view to implementing the plan jointly with the State or Territory to the extent to which the plan applies in the State or Territory.
269AA Decision whether to have a recovery plan
Minister has an initial obligation and then a discretion
(1) The Minister must decide whether to have a recovery plan for a listed threatened species (except one that is extinct or that is a conservation dependent species) or a listed threatened ecological community within 90 days after the species or community becomes listed. The Minister may, at any other time, decide whether to have a recovery plan for the species or community.
(2) In this section:
(a) the decision that the Minister is required by subsection (1) to make in relation to the species or community within the 90 day period referred to in that subsection is the initial recovery plan decision; and
(b) any subsequent decision that the Minister makes under subsection (1) in relation to the species or community is a subsequent recovery plan decision.
Making the initial recovery plan decision
(3) In making the initial recovery plan decision, the Minister must have regard to the recommendation (the initial recommendation) made by the Scientific Committee as mentioned in paragraph 189(1B)(c) in relation to the species or community.
Making a subsequent recovery plan decision (unless subsection (5) applies)
(4) In making a subsequent recovery plan decision in relation to the species or community, other than a decision to which subsection (5) applies:
(a) the Minister must have regard to the initial recommendation in relation to the species or community; and
(b) the Minister must have regard to any advice subsequently provided to the Minister by the Scientific Committee about whether there should be a recovery plan for the species or community.
Changing from a decision to have a recovery plan to a decision not to have a recovery plan—additional requirements
(5) If, at a time when a decision to have a recovery plan for the species or community is in force (whether or not the plan has yet been made), the Minister is proposing to make a subsequent recovery plan decision that there should not be a recovery plan for the species or community:
(a) the Minister must ask the Scientific Committee for advice relating to the proposed decision; and
(b) the Minister must publish a notice inviting comments on the proposed decision in accordance with subsection (7); and
(c) the Minister must, in deciding whether to make the proposed decision, take account of:
(i) any advice provided by the Scientific Committee in relation to the proposed decision; and
(ii) subject to subsection (6), the comments the Minister receives in response to the notice referred to in paragraph (b).
(6) The Minister is not required to take a comment referred to in subparagraph (5)(c)(ii) into account if:
(a) the Minister does not receive the comment until after the cut‑off date specified in the notice under paragraph (5)(b); or
(b) the Minister considers that regulations referred to in paragraph (8)(b) have not been complied with in relation to the comment.
(7) The notice referred to in paragraph (5)(b):
(a) must be published in accordance with the regulations referred to in paragraph (8)(a); and
(b) must set out the decision the Minister proposed to make; and
(c) must invite people to make comments, to the Minister, about the proposed decision; and
(d) must specify the date (the cut‑off date) by which comments must be received, which must be at least 30 business days after the notice has been published as required by paragraph (a); and
(e) must specify, or refer to, the manner and form requirements that, under regulations referred to in paragraph (8)(b), apply to making comments; and
(f) may also include any other information that the Minister considers appropriate.
(8) The regulations must provide for the following:
(a) how a notice referred to in paragraph (5)(b) is to be published;
(b) the manner and form for making comments.
General publication requirements
(9) The Minister must publish the following:
(a) the Minister’s initial recovery plan decision, and the reasons for it;
(b) each subsequent recovery plan decision (if any), and the reasons for it.
The regulations may specify how the publication is to be made. Subject to any such regulations, the publication must be made in a way that the Minister considers appropriate.
Note: This subsection must be complied with, even if the Minister has already published notice of the proposed decision in accordance with subsections (5) and (7).
Decisions not legislative instruments
(10) An instrument making a decision under subsection (1) is not a legislative instrument.
269A Making or adopting a recovery plan
Application
(1) This section applies only if the Minister’s most recent decision under section 269AA in relation to a listed threatened species (except one that is extinct or that is a conservation dependent species) or a listed threatened ecological community is to have a recovery plan for the species or community.
Note: Subsection 273(1) sets a deadline of 3 years from the decision for ensuring that a recovery plan is in force for the species or community. Subsection 273(2) allows that period to be extended.
Making a plan
(2) The Minister may make a written recovery plan for the purposes of the protection, conservation and management of:
(a) a listed threatened species (except one that is extinct or is a conservation dependent species); or
(b) a listed threatened ecological community.
Making a plan jointly with a State or Territory
(3) The Minister may make a written recovery plan for the purposes of the protection, conservation and management of a listed threatened species (except one that is extinct or is a conservation dependent species) or a listed threatened ecological community jointly with one or more of the States and self‑governing Territories in which the species or community occurs, or with agencies of one or more of those States and Territories.
Content of a plan
(4) The Minister must not make a recovery plan under subsection (2) or (3) unless the plan meets the requirements of section 270.
Prerequisites to making a plan
(5) Before making a recovery plan under subsection (2) or (3) for a listed threatened species or listed threatened ecological community, the Minister must:
(a) consult the appropriate Minister of each State and self‑governing Territory in which the species or community occurs, and in which actions that the plan would provide for would occur, with a view to:
(i) taking the views of each of those States and Territories into account in making the plan under subsection (2); or
(ii) making the plan jointly under subsection (3);
unless the species or community occurs only in a Commonwealth area; and
(b) consider the advice of the Scientific Committee given under section 274; and
(c) consult about the plan and consider comments in accordance with sections 275 and 276.
Limits on making a plan
(6) The Minister must not make a recovery plan under subsection (2) for a species or ecological community that occurs wholly or partly outside a Commonwealth area unless the Minister is satisfied that it is not reasonably practicable, within the period of 3 years referred to in subsection 273(1), to make the plan under subsection (3) of this section with each State or Territory:
(a) in which the species or community occurs; and
(b) in which actions that the plan would provide for would occur, if the plan were made under subsection (2) of this section.
Adopting a State or Territory plan
(7) The Minister may, by instrument in writing, adopt as a recovery plan a plan made by a State, a self‑governing Territory or an agency of a State or self‑governing Territory (whether or not the plan is in force in the State or Territory). The Minister may adopt the plan with such modifications as are specified in the instrument. This subsection has effect subject to section 277.
Note: Section 277 requires that:
(a) an adopted plan have the content required for a recovery plan by section 270; and
(b) there has been adequate consultation in making the plan adopted; and
(c) the Minister consult the Scientific Committee about the content of the plan.
Effect of adopting a plan
(8) A plan adopted under subsection (7) has effect as if it had been made under subsection (2) (whether it was adopted with modifications or not).
270 Content of recovery plans
(1) A recovery plan must provide for the research and management actions necessary to stop the decline of, and support the recovery of, the listed threatened species or listed threatened ecological community concerned so that its chances of long‑term survival in nature are maximised.
(2) In particular, a recovery plan must (subject to subsection (2A)):
(a) state the objectives to be achieved (for example, removing a species or community from a list, or indefinite protection of existing populations of a species or community); and
(b) state criteria against which achievement of the objectives is to be measured (for example, a specified number and distribution of viable populations of a species or community, or the abatement of threats to a species or community); and
(c) specify the actions needed to achieve the objectives; and
(ca) identify threats to the species or community; and
(d) identify the habitats that are critical to the survival of the species or community concerned and the actions needed to protect those habitats; and
(e) identify any populations of the species or community concerned that are under particular pressure of survival and the actions needed to protect those populations; and
(f) state the estimated duration and cost of the recovery process; and
(g) identify:
(i) interests that will be affected by the plan’s implementation; and
(ii) organisations or persons who will be involved in evaluating the performance of the recovery plan; and
(h) specify any major benefits to native species or ecological communities (other than those to which the plan relates) that will be affected by the plan’s implementation; and
(j) meet prescribed criteria (if any) and contain provisions of a prescribed kind (if any).
(2A) A recovery plan need only address the matters mentioned in paragraphs (2)(d), (e), (f), (g) and (h) to the extent to which it is practicable to do so.
(3) In making a recovery plan, regard must be had to:
(a) the objects of this Act; and
(b) the most efficient and effective use of the resources that are allocated for the conservation of species and ecological communities; and
(c) minimising any significant adverse social and economic impacts, consistently with the principles of ecologically sustainable development; and
(d) meeting Australia’s obligations under international agreements between Australia and one or more countries relevant to the species or ecological community to which the plan relates; and
(e) the role and interests of indigenous people in the conservation of Australia’s biodiversity.
270A Decision whether to have a threat abatement plan
Decision
(1) The Minister may at any time decide whether to have a threat abatement plan for a threatening process in the list of key threatening processes established under section 183. The Minister must do so:
(a) within 90 days of the threatening process being included in the list; and
(b) within 5 years of the last decision whether to have a threat abatement plan for the process, if that decision was not to have a threat abatement plan for the process.
Basis for decision
(2) The Minister must decide to have a threat abatement plan for the process if he or she believes that having and implementing a threat abatement plan is a feasible, effective and efficient way to abate the process. The Minister must decide not to have a threat abatement plan if he or she does not believe that.
Consultation before making a decision
(3) Before making a decision under this section, the Minister must:
(a) request the Scientific Committee to give advice within a specified period; and
(b) take reasonable steps to request any Commonwealth agency, any State, any self‑governing Territory, and any agency of a State or self‑governing Territory, that would be affected by or interested in abatement of the process to give advice within a specified period;
on the feasibility, effectiveness or efficiency of having and implementing a threat abatement plan to abate the process.
Consulting others
(4) Subsection (3) does not prevent the Minister from requesting any other person or body to give advice within a specified period on the feasibility, effectiveness or efficiency of having and implementing a threat abatement plan to abate the process.
Request may be made before listing
(5) A request for advice on the feasibility, effectiveness or efficiency of having and implementing a threat abatement plan to abate the process may be made before or after the process is included in the list of key threatening processes established under section 183.
Time for giving advice
(6) The Minister must not make a decision whether to have a threat abatement plan for the process before the end of the period within which he or she has requested a person or body to give advice on the feasibility, effectiveness or efficiency of having and implementing a threat abatement plan to abate the process.
Considering views expressed in consultation
(7) When the Minister is making a decision under this section, he or she must consider the advice that a person or body gave on request within the period specified in the request.
Publishing decision and reasons
(8) The Minister must publish in accordance with the regulations (if any):
(a) a decision whether or not to have a threat abatement plan for a key threatening process; and
(b) the Minister’s reasons for the decision.
Special rules for processes included in original list
(9) Subsections (3), (4), (5), (6) and (7) do not apply in relation to a decision about a process included in the list under section 183 as first established.
270B Making or adopting a threat abatement plan
Application
(1) This section applies only if the Minister’s most recent decision under section 270A in relation to a key threatening process is to have a threat abatement plan for the process.
Note: Section 273 sets a deadline of 3 years from the decision for ensuring that a threat abatement plan is in force for the process.
Making a plan
(2) The Minister may make a written threat abatement plan for the purposes of reducing the effect of the process.
Making a plan jointly with a State or Territory
(3) The Minister may make a written threat abatement plan for the purposes of reducing the effect of the process, jointly with the States and self‑governing Territories in which the process occurs or with agencies of those States and Territories.
Content of a plan
(4) The Minister must not make a threat abatement plan under subsection (2) or (3) unless the plan meets the requirements of section 271.
Prerequisites to making a plan
(5) Before making a threat abatement plan for the process under subsection (2) or (3), the Minister must:
(a) consult the appropriate Minister of each State and self‑governing Territory in which the process occurs, with a view to:
(i) taking the views of each of those States and Territories into account in making the plan under subsection (2); or
(ii) making the plan jointly under subsection (3);
unless the process occurs only in a Commonwealth area; and
(b) consider the advice of the Scientific Committee given under section 274; and
(c) consult about the plan and consider comments in accordance with sections 275 and 276.
Limits on making a plan
(6) The Minister must not make a threat abatement plan under subsection (2) for a process that occurs wholly or partly outside a Commonwealth area unless the Minister is satisfied that it is not reasonably practicable to make the plan:
(a) jointly with each of the States and self‑governing Territories in which the process occurs; and
(b) within 3 years of the decision to have the plan.
Adopting a State or Territory plan
(7) The Minister may, by instrument in writing, adopt as a threat abatement plan for the process a plan made by a State, a self‑governing Territory or an agency of a State or self‑governing Territory (whether or not the plan is in force in the State or Territory). The Minister may adopt the plan with such modifications as are specified in the instrument. This subsection has effect subject to section 277.
Note: Section 277 requires that:
(a) an adopted plan have the content required for a threat abatement plan by section 271; and
(b) there has been adequate consultation in making the plan adopted; and
(c) the Minister consult the Scientific Committee about the content of the plan.
Effect of adopting a plan
(8) A plan adopted under subsection (7) has effect as if it had been made under subsection (2), whether it was adopted with modifications or not.
271 Content of threat abatement plans
(1) A threat abatement plan must provide for the research, management and other actions necessary to reduce the key threatening process concerned to an acceptable level in order to maximise the chances of the long‑term survival in nature of native species and ecological communities affected by the process.
(2) In particular, a threat abatement plan must:
(a) state the objectives to be achieved; and
(b) state criteria against which achievement of the objectives is to be measured; and
(c) specify the actions needed to achieve the objectives; and
(g) meet prescribed criteria (if any) and contain provisions of a prescribed kind (if any).
(3) In making a threat abatement plan, regard must be had to:
(a) the objects of this Act; and
(b) the most efficient and effective use of the resources that are allocated for the conservation of species and ecological communities; and
(c) minimising any significant adverse social and economic impacts consistently with the principles of ecologically sustainable development; and
(d) meeting Australia’s obligations under international agreements between Australia and one or more countries relevant to the species or ecological community threatened by the key threatening process that is the subject of the plan; and
(e) the role and interests of indigenous people in the conservation of Australia’s biodiversity.
(4) A threat abatement plan may:
(a) state the estimated duration and cost of the threat abatement process; and
(b) identify organisations or persons who will be involved in evaluating the performance of the threat abatement plan; and
(c) specify any major ecological matters (other than the species or communities threatened by the key threatening process that is the subject of the plan) that will be affected by the plan’s implementation.
(5) Subsection (4) does not limit the matters that a threat abatement plan may include.
272 Eradication of non‑native species
If:
(a) the actions specified under paragraph 270(2)(c) in a recovery plan, or under paragraph 271(2)(c) in a threat abatement plan, include the eradication of a non‑native species; and
(b) the species is threatened in a country in which its native habitat occurs;
the recovery plan, or threat abatement plan, must require the Commonwealth to offer to provide stock of the species to that country before the eradication proceeds.
273 Ensuring plans are in force
When a plan comes into force
(1A) A recovery plan or a threat abatement plan comes into force on the day on which it is made or adopted, or on a later day specified by the Minister in writing.
Deadline for recovery plan
(1) Subject to subsection (2), a recovery plan for a listed threatened species or a listed threatened ecological community must be made and in force within 3 years of the decision under section 269AA to have the plan.
(2) The Minister may, in writing, extend the period within which a recovery plan must be made. Only one extension can be granted for the making of the plan, and the period of the extension must not be more than 3 years.
Ensuring recovery plan is in force
(3) Once the first recovery plan for a listed threatened species or a listed threatened ecological community is in force, the Minister must exercise his or her powers under this Subdivision to ensure that a recovery plan is in force for the species or community until the Minister decides under section 269AA not to have a recovery plan for the species or community.
Note: The Minister may revoke a recovery plan for a listed threatened species or a listed threatened ecological community if the Minister decides under section 269AA not to have a recovery plan for the species or community. See section 283A.
Deadline for threat abatement plan
(4) A threat abatement plan for a key threatening process must be made and in force within 3 years of the decision under section 270A to have the plan.
Ensuring threat abatement plan is in force
(5) Once the first threat abatement plan for a key threatening process is in force, the Minister must exercise his or her powers under this Subdivision to ensure that a threat abatement plan is in force for the process until the Minister decides under section 270A not to have a threat abatement plan for the process.
Note: The Minister may revoke a threat abatement plan for a key threatening process if the Minister decides under section 270A not to have a threat abatement plan for the process. See section 283A.
274 Scientific Committee to advise on plans
(1) The Minister must obtain and consider the advice of the Scientific Committee on:
(a) the content of recovery and threat abatement plans; and
(b) the times within which, and the order in which, such plans should be made.
(2) In giving advice about a recovery plan, the Scientific Committee must take into account the following matters:
(a) the degree of threat to the survival in nature of the species or ecological community in question;
(b) the potential for the species or community to recover;
(c) the genetic distinctiveness of the species or community;
(d) the importance of the species or community to the ecosystem;
(e) the value to humanity of the species or community;
(f) the efficient and effective use of the resources allocated to the conservation of species and ecological communities.
(3) In giving advice about a threat abatement plan, the Scientific Committee must take into account the following matters:
(a) the degree of threat that the key threatening process in question poses to the survival in nature of species and ecological communities;
(b) the potential of species and ecological communities so threatened to recover;
(c) the efficient and effective use of the resources allocated to the conservation of species and ecological communities.
275 Consultation on plans
(1) Before making a recovery plan or threat abatement plan under this Subdivision, the Minister must:
(a) take reasonable steps to ensure that copies of the proposed plan are available for purchase, for a reasonable price, at prescribed places in each State and self‑governing territory; and
(b) give a copy of it, together with a notice of a kind referred to in subsection (2), to the Scientific Committee; and
(c) cause the notice to be published:
(i) in the Gazette; and
(ii) in a daily newspaper that circulates generally in each State, and self‑governing Territory, in which the relevant listed threatened native species, listed threatened ecological community or key threatening process occurs; and
(iii) in any other way required by the regulations (if any).
(2) The notice must:
(a) specify the places where copies of the proposed plan may be purchased; and
(b) invite persons to make written comments about the proposed plan; and
(c) specify:
(i) an address for lodgment of comments; and
(ii) a day by which comments must be made.
(3) The day specified must not be a day occurring within 3 months after the notice is published in the Gazette.
276 Consideration of comments
The Minister:
(a) must, in accordance with the regulations (if any), consider all comments on a proposed recovery plan or threat abatement plan made in response to an invitation under section 275; and
(b) may revise the plan to take account of those comments.
277 Adoption of State plans
(1) The Minister must not adopt a plan as a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan under this Subdivision unless:
(a) the Minister is satisfied that an appropriate level of consultation has been undertaken in making the plan; and
(b) the plan meets the requirements of section 270 or 271, as the case requires.
(2) Before adopting a plan, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the plan.
278 Publication of plans
(1) As soon as practicable after the Minister makes or adopts a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan under this Subdivision, the Minister must:
(a) make copies of the plan available for purchase, for a reasonable price, at a prescribed place in each State and self‑governing Territory; and
(b) give notice of the making or adopting of each such plan; and
(c) publish the notice:
(i) in the Gazette; and
(ii) in a daily newspaper that circulates generally in each State, and self‑governing Territory; and
(iii) in any other way required by the regulations (if any).
(2) The notice must:
(a) state that the Minister has made or adopted the plan; and
(b) specify the day on which the plan comes into force; and
(c) specify the places where copies of the plan may be purchased.
279 Variation of plans by the Minister
(1) The Minister may, at any time, review a recovery plan or threat abatement plan that has been made or adopted under this Subdivision and consider whether a variation of it is necessary.
(2) Each plan must be reviewed by the Minister at intervals of not longer than 5 years.
(3) If the Minister considers that a variation of a plan is necessary, the Minister may, subject to subsections (4), (5), (6) and (7), vary the plan.
(4) The Minister must not vary a plan, unless the plan, as so varied, continues to meet the requirements of section 270 or 271, as the case requires.
(5) Before varying a plan, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the variation.
(6) If the Minister has made a plan jointly with, or adopted a plan that has been made by, a State or self‑governing Territory, or an agency of a State or self‑governing Territory, the Minister must seek the co‑operation of that State or Territory, or that agency, with a view to varying the plan.
(7) Sections 275, 276 and 278 apply to the variation of a plan in the same way that those sections apply to the making of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan.
280 Variation by a State or Territory of joint plans and plans adopted by the Minister
(1) If a State or self‑governing Territory varies a plan that:
(a) the Minister has made jointly with the State or self‑governing Territory, or an agency of the State or Territory; or
(b) has been adopted by the Minister as a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan;
the variation is of no effect for the purposes of this Act unless it is approved by the Minister.
(2) Before approving a variation, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the variation.
(3) The Minister must not approve a variation unless satisfied that:
(a) an appropriate level of consultation was undertaken in varying the plan; and
(b) the plan, as so varied, continues to meet the requirements of section 270 or 271, as the case requires.
(4) If the Minister approves a variation of a plan, the plan has effect as so varied on and after the date of the approval, or such later date as the Minister determines in writing.
(5) Section 278 applies to the variation of a plan in the same way that it applies to the making of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan.
281 Commonwealth assistance
(1) The Commonwealth may give to a State or self‑governing Territory, or to an agency of a State or a self‑governing Territory, financial assistance, and any other assistance, to make or implement a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan.
(2) The Commonwealth may give to a person (other than a State or a self‑governing Territory, or an agency of a State or Territory) financial assistance, and any other assistance, to implement a recovery plan or a threat abatement plan.
(3) The giving of assistance may be made subject to such conditions as the Minister thinks fit. The Minister is to have regard to the advice of the Scientific Committee under section 282 before determining those conditions.
282 Scientific Committee to advise on assistance
(1) The Scientific Committee is to advise the Minister on the conditions (if any) to which the giving of assistance under section 281 should be subject.
(2) In giving advice about assistance for making or implementing a recovery plan, the Scientific Committee must take into account the following matters:
(a) the degree of threat to the survival in nature of the species or ecological community in question;
(b) the potential for the species or community to recover;
(c) the genetic distinctiveness of the species or community;
(d) the importance of the species or community to the ecosystem;
(e) the value to humanity of the species or community;
(f) the efficient and effective use of the resources allocated to the conservation of species and ecological communities.
(3) In giving advice about assistance for making or implementing threat abatement plan, the Scientific Committee must take into account the following matters:
(a) the degree of threat that the key threatening process in question poses to the survival in nature of species and ecological communities;
(b) the potential of species and ecological communities so threatened to recover;
(c) the efficient and effective use of the resources allocated to the conservation of species and ecological communities.
283 Plans may cover more than one species etc.
(1) A recovery plan made or adopted under this Subdivision may deal with one or more listed threatened species and/or one or more listed ecological communities.
(2) A threat abatement plan made or adopted under this Subdivision may deal with one or more key threatening processes.
283A Revoking a plan
(1) The Minister may, by legislative instrument:
(a) revoke a recovery plan for a listed threatened species or a listed threatened ecological community if the Minister decides under section 269AA not to have a recovery plan for the species or community; or
(b) revoke a threat abatement plan for a key threatening process if the Minister decides under section 270A not to have a threat abatement plan for the process.
(2) The Minister must publish in accordance with the regulations (if any):
(a) the instrument revoking the plan; and
(b) the Minister’s reasons for revoking the plan.
284 Reports on preparation and implementation of plans
The Secretary must include in each annual report a report on the making and adoption under this Subdivision of each recovery plan and threat abatement plan during the year to which the report relates.
Subdivision B—Wildlife conservation plans
285 Wildlife conservation plans
(1) Subject to this section, the Minister may make, by instrument in writing, and implement a wildlife conservation plan for the purposes of the protection, conservation and management of the following:
(a) a listed migratory species that occurs in Australia or an external Territory;
(b) a listed marine species that occurs in Australia or an external Territory;
(c) a species of cetacean that occurs in the Australian Whale Sanctuary;
(d) a conservation dependent species.
(2) The Minister must not make a wildlife conservation plan for a species that is a listed threatened species (except a conservation dependent species).
(3) Subject to section 292, the Minister may, by instrument in writing, adopt a plan that has been made by a State or a self‑governing Territory, or by an agency of a State or self‑governing Territory, as a wildlife conservation plan. The Minister may adopt a plan with such modifications as are specified in the instrument.
(4) A plan, as modified and adopted under subsection (2), has effect as if the plan had been made by the Minister under subsection (1).
(5) The Minister must seek the co‑operation of the States and self‑governing Territories in which:
(a) a listed migratory species occurs; or
(b) a listed marine species occurs; or
(c) a species of cetacean occurs; or
(d) a conservation dependent species occurs;
with a view to making and implementing jointly with those States and Territories, or agencies of those States or Territories, a joint wildlife conservation plan unless the species occurs only in a Commonwealth area.
(6) Before making a wildlife conservation plan under subsection (1) or (5), the Minister must:
(a) consider the advice of the Scientific Committee given under section 289; and
(b) consult about the plan in accordance with sections 290 and 291.
(7) A wildlife conservation plan comes into force on the day on which it is made or adopted, or on such later day as the Minister specifies in writing.
286 Acting in accordance with wildlife conservation plans
A Commonwealth agency must take all reasonable steps to act in accordance with a wildlife conservation plan.
287 Content of wildlife conservation plans
(1) A wildlife conservation plan must provide for the research and management actions necessary to support survival of the migratory species, marine species, species of cetacean or conservation dependent species concerned.
(2) In particular, a wildlife conservation plan must:
(a) state the objectives to be achieved; and
(b) state criteria against which achievement of the objectives is to be measured; and
(c) specify the actions needed to achieve the objectives; and
(d) identify the habitats of the species concerned and the actions needed to protect those habitats; and
(e) identify:
(i) interests that will be affected by the plan’s implementation; and
(ii) organisations or persons who will be involved in evaluating the performance of the plan; and
(f) specify any major benefits to migratory species, marine species, species of cetacean or conservation dependent species (other than those to which the plan relates) that will be affected by the plan’s implementation; and
(g) meet prescribed criteria (if any) and contain provisions of a prescribed kind (if any).
(3) In making a wildlife conservation plan, regard must be had to:
(a) the objects of this Act; and
(b) the most efficient and effective use of the resources that are allocated for the conservation of migratory species, marine species, species of cetacean and conservation dependent species; and
(c) minimising any significant adverse social and economic impacts, consistently with the principles of ecologically sustainable development; and
(d) meeting Australia’s obligations under international agreements between Australia and one or more countries relevant to the migratory species, marine species, species of cetacean or conservation dependent species to which the plan relates; and
(e) the role and interests of indigenous people in the conservation of Australia’s biodiversity.
288 Eradication of non‑native species
If:
(a) the actions specified under section 287 in a wildlife conservation plan include the eradication of a non‑native species; and
(b) the species is threatened in a country in which its native habitat occurs;
the wildlife conservation plan must require the Commonwealth to offer to provide stock of the species to that country before the eradication proceeds.
289 Scientific Committee to advise on scheduling of plans
(1) The Minister may seek advice from the Scientific Committee on the need for wildlife conservation plans and the order in which they should be made.
(1A) The Scientific Committee may advise the Minister on its own initiative to make a wildlife conservation plan for a specified species described in subsection 285(1).
(2) In giving advice under subsection (1) or (1A), the Scientific Committee must take into account the resources available for making plans.
(3) Before making a plan, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the plan.
290 Consultation on plans
(1) Before making a wildlife conservation plan under subsection 285(1) or (5), the Minister must:
(a) take reasonable steps to ensure that copies of the proposed plan are available for purchase, for a reasonable price, at prescribed places in each State and self‑governing Territory; and
(b) give a copy of it, together with a notice of a kind referred to in subsection (2), to the Scientific Committee; and
(c) cause the notice to be published:
(i) in the Gazette; and
(ii) in a daily newspaper that circulates generally in each State, and self‑governing Territory; and
(iii) in any other way required by the regulations (if any).
(2) The notice must:
(a) specify the places where copies of the proposed plan may be purchased; and
(b) invite persons to make written comments about the proposed plan; and
(c) specify:
(i) an address for lodgment of comments; and
(ii) a day by which comments must be made.
(3) The day specified must not be a day occurring within 3 months after the notice is published in the Gazette.
291 Consideration of comments
The Minister:
(a) must, in accordance with the regulations (if any), consider all comments on a proposed wildlife conservation plan made in response to an invitation under section 290; and
(b) may revise the plan to take account of those comments.
292 Adoption of State plans
(1) The Minister must not adopt a plan as a wildlife conservation plan under subsection 285(3) unless:
(a) the Minister is satisfied that an appropriate level of consultation has been undertaken in making the plan; and
(b) the plan meets the requirements of section 287.
(2) Before adopting a plan, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the plan.
293 Publication, review and variation of plans
(1) As soon as practicable after the Minister makes or adopts a wildlife conservation plan under section 285, the Minister must:
(a) make copies of the plan available for purchase, for a reasonable price, at a prescribed place in each State and self‑governing Territory; and
(b) give notice of the making or adoption of each such plan; and
(c) publish the notice:
(i) in the Gazette; and
(ii) in a daily newspaper that circulates generally in each State, and self‑governing Territory; and
(iii) in any other way required by the regulations (if any).
(2) The notice must:
(a) state that the Minister has made or adopted the plan; and
(b) specify the day on which the plan comes into force; and
(c) specify the places where copies of the plan may be purchased.
294 Variation of plans by the Minister
(1) The Minister may, at any time, review a wildlife conservation plan that has been made or adopted under section 285 and consider whether a variation of it is necessary.
(2) Each plan must be reviewed by the Minister at intervals of not longer than 5 years.
(3) If the Minister considers that a variation of a plan is necessary, the Minister may, subject to subsections (4), (5), (6) and (7) vary the plan.
(4) The Minister must not vary a plan, unless the plan, as so varied, continues to meet the requirements of section 287.
(5) Before varying a plan, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the variation.
(6) If the Minister has made a plan jointly with, or adopted a plan that has been made by, a State or self‑governing Territory, or an agency of a State or self‑governing Territory, the Minister must seek the co‑operation of that State or Territory, or that agency, with a view to varying the plan.
(7) Sections 290, 291 and 293 apply to the variation of a plan in the same way that those sections apply to the making of a wildlife conservation plan.
295 Variation by a State or Territory of joint plans and plans adopted by the Minister
(1) If a State or self‑governing Territory varies a plan that:
(a) the Minister has made jointly with the State or self‑governing Territory, or an agency of the State or Territory; or
(b) has been adopted by the Minister as a wildlife conservation plan;
the variation is of no effect for the purposes of this Act unless it is approved by the Minister.
(2) Before approving a variation, the Minister must obtain and consider advice from the Scientific Committee on the content of the variation.
(3) The Minister must not approve a variation under subsection (1) unless satisfied:
(a) an appropriate level of consultation was undertaken in varying the plan; and
(b) the plan, as so varied, continues to meet the requirements of section 287.
(4) If the Minister approves a variation of a plan, the plan has effect as so varied on and after the date of the approval, or such later date as the Minister determines in writing.
(5) Section 293 applies to the variation of a plan in the same way that it applies to the making of a wildlife conservation plan.
296 Commonwealth assistance
(1) The Commonwealth may give to a State or self‑governing Territory, or to an agency of a State or a self‑governing Territory, financial assistance, and any other assistance, to make a wildlife conservation plan.
(2) The Commonwealth may give to a person (other than a State or a self‑governing Territory, or an agency of a State or Territory) financial assistance, and any other assistance, to implement a wildlife conservation plan.
(3) The giving of assistance may be made subject to such conditions as the Minister thinks fit.
297 Plans may cover more than one species etc.
A wildlife conservation plan made or adopted under this Subdivision may deal with all or any of the following:
(a) one or more listed migratory species;
(b) one or more listed marine species;
(c) one or more species of cetacean;
(d) one or more conservation dependent species.
298 Reports on preparation and implementation of plans
The Secretary must include in each annual report a report on the making and adoption under section 285 of each wildlife conservation plan during the year to which the report relates.
Subdivision C—Miscellaneous
299 Wildlife conservation plans cease to have effect
If:
(a) a wildlife conservation plan is in force for all or any of the following:
(i) a listed migratory species;
(ii) a listed marine species;
(iii) a species of cetacean; and
(b) the species becomes a listed threatened species (except a conservation dependent species);
the wildlife conservation plan ceases to have effect in relation to the species on and from the day on which the species becomes a listed threatened species as mentioned in paragraph (b).
300 Document may contain more than one plan
(1) All or any of the plans made under this Division may be included in the same document.
(2) All or any of the plans adopted under this Division may be included in the same instrument of adoption.
300A State and Territory laws not affected
Sections 269A, 270A, 270B, 273 and 285 do not exclude or limit the concurrent operation of a law of a State or self‑governing Territory.
300B Assistance from the Scientific Committee
(1) The Minister may, at any time, ask the Scientific Committee to provide the Minister with a statement, information or advice for the purpose of assisting the Minister in the performance or exercise of the Minister’s functions or powers under section 266B, 269AA or 270A.
(2) The Scientific Committee may, at any time, provide the Minister with a statement, information or advice for the purpose of assisting the Minister in the performance or exercise of the Minister’s functions or powers under section 266B, 269AA or 270A (whether or not the Committee is acting in response to a request under subsection (1) of this section).
Division 6—Access to biological resources
301 Control of access to biological resources
(1) The regulations may provide for the control of access to biological resources in Commonwealth areas.
(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations may contain provisions about all or any of the following:
(a) the equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the use of biological resources in Commonwealth areas;
(b) the facilitation of access to such resources;
(c) the right to deny access to such resources;
(d) the granting of access to such resources and the terms and conditions of such access.
Division 6A—Control of non‑native species
301A Regulations for control of non‑native species
The regulations may:
(a) provide for the establishment and maintenance of a list of species, other than native species, whose members:
(i) do or may threaten biodiversity in the Australian jurisdiction; or
(ii) would be likely to threaten biodiversity in the Australian jurisdiction if they were brought into the Australian jurisdiction; and
(b) regulate or prohibit the bringing into the Australian jurisdiction of members of a species included in the list mentioned in paragraph (a); and
(c) regulate or prohibit trade in members of a species included in the list mentioned in paragraph (a):
(i) between Australia and another country; or
(ii) between 2 States; or
(iii) between 2 Territories; or
(iv) between a State and a Territory; or
(v) by a constitutional corporation; and
(d) regulate and prohibit actions:
(i) involving or affecting members of a species included in the list mentioned in paragraph (a); and
(ii) whose regulation or prohibition is appropriate and adapted to give effect to Australia’s obligations under an agreement with one or more other countries; and
(e) provide for the making and implementation of plans to reduce, eliminate or prevent the impacts of members of species included in the list mentioned in paragraph (a) on biodiversity in the Australian jurisdiction.
Division 7—Aid for conservation of species in foreign countries
302 Aid for conservation of species in foreign countries
On behalf of the Commonwealth, the Minister may give financial assistance to the governments of foreign countries and organisations in foreign countries to help the recovery and conservation, in those countries, of species covered by international agreements to which Australia is a party.
Division 8—Miscellaneous
303 Regulations
(1) The regulations may make provision for the conservation of biodiversity in Commonwealth areas.
(2) In particular, the regulations may prohibit or regulate actions affecting a member of a native species in a Commonwealth area. This does not limit subsection (1).
303A Exemptions from this Part
(1) A person proposing to take an action that would contravene a provision of this Part apart from this section may apply in writing to the Minister for an exemption from the provision.
(2) The Minister must decide within 20 business days of receiving the application whether or not to grant the exemption.
(3) The Minister may, by written notice, exempt a specified person from the application of a specified provision of this Part in relation to a specified action.
(4) The Minister may do so only if he or she is satisfied that it is in the national interest that the provision not apply in relation to the person or the action.
(5) In determining the national interest, the Minister may consider Australia’s defence or security or a national emergency. This does not limit the matters the Minister may consider.
(6) A provision specified in the notice does not apply in relation to the specified person or action on or after the day specified in the notice. The Minister must not specify a day earlier than the day the notice is made.
(7) Within 10 business days after making the notice, the Minister must:
(a) publish a copy of the notice and his or her reasons for granting the exemption in accordance with the regulations; and
(b) give a copy of the notice to the person specified in the notice.
303AA Conditions relating to accreditation of plans, regimes and policies
(1) This section applies to an accreditation of a plan, regime or policy under section 208A, 222A, 245 or 265.
(2) The Minister may accredit a plan, regime or policy under that section even though he or she considers that the plan, regime or policy should be accredited only:
(a) during a particular period; or
(b) while certain circumstances exist; or
(c) while a certain condition is complied with.
In such a case, the instrument of accreditation is to specify the period, circumstances or condition.
(3) If an accreditation specifies a particular period as mentioned in subsection (2), the accreditation ceases to be in force at the end of that period.
(4) If an accreditation specifies circumstances as mentioned in subsection (2), the Minister must, in writing, revoke the accreditation if he or she is satisfied that those circumstances have ceased to exist.
(5) The Minister may, in writing, vary an accreditation by:
(a) specifying one or more conditions (or further conditions) to which the accreditation is subject; or
(b) revoking or varying a condition:
(i) specified in the instrument of accreditation; or
(ii) specified under paragraph (a).
(6) A condition may relate to reporting or monitoring.
(7) The Minister must, in writing, revoke an accreditation if he or she is satisfied that a condition of the accreditation has been contravened.
303AB Amended policies, regimes or plans taken to be accredited
(1) If:
(a) a plan, regime or policy is accredited under section 208A, 222A, 245 or 265; and
(b) the plan, regime or policy is amended, or is proposed to be amended; and
(c) the Minister is satisfied that the amendments are, or will be, minor; and
(d) the Minister is satisfied that the plan, regime or policy as amended meets, or will meet, the requirements of subsection 208A(1), 222A(1), 245(1) or 265(1) (as the case may be);
the Minister may, by instrument in writing, determine that this subsection applies to the amendments.
(2) If the Minister makes a determination under subsection (1), the plan, regime or policy as amended is, for the purposes of this Act, taken to be accredited under subsection 208A(1), 222A(2), 245(1) or 265(1) (as the case may be).
(3) A determination under subsection (1) of this section is not a legislative instrument.
Part 13A—International movement of wildlife specimens
Division 1—Introduction
303BA Objects of Part
(1) The objects of this Part are as follows:
(a) to ensure that Australia complies with its obligations under CITES and the Biodiversity Convention;
(b) to protect wildlife that may be adversely affected by trade;
(c) to promote the conservation of biodiversity in Australia and other countries;
(d) to ensure that any commercial utilisation of Australian native wildlife for the purposes of export is managed in an ecologically sustainable way;
(e) to promote the humane treatment of wildlife;
(f) to ensure ethical conduct during any research associated with the utilisation of wildlife;
(h) to ensure that the precautionary principle is taken into account in making decisions relating to the utilisation of wildlife.
Note: CITES means the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species—see section 528.
(2) In order to achieve its objects, this Part includes special provisions to conserve the biodiversity of Australian native wildlife.
303BAA Certain indigenous rights not affected
To avoid doubt, nothing in this Part prevents an indigenous person from continuing in accordance with law the traditional use of an area for:
(a) hunting (except for the purposes of sale); or
(b) food gathering (except for the purposes of sale); or
(c) ceremonial or religious purposes.
303BB Simplified outline
The following is a simplified outline of this Part:
• This Part sets up a system for regulating the international movement of wildlife specimens.
• A CITES specimen is a specimen of a species included in Appendix I, II or III to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
• It is an offence to export or import a CITES specimen unless:
(a) the exporter or importer holds a permit; or
(b) an exemption applies.
• A regulated native specimen is a specimen of a native species subject to export control under this Part.
• It is an offence to export a regulated native specimen unless:
(a) the exporter holds a permit; or
(b) an exemption applies.
• A regulated live specimen is a live specimen of a species subject to import control under this Part.
• It is an offence to import a regulated live specimen unless the importer holds a permit.
• It is an offence to possess a specimen that was imported in contravention of this Part.
303BC Definitions
In this Part, unless the contrary intention appears:
eligible listed threatened species means a listed threatened species other than a species in the conservation dependent category.
engage in conduct means:
(a) do an act; or
(b) omit to perform an act.
export means:
(a) export from Australia or from an external Territory; or
(b) export from the sea;
but does not include:
(c) export from Australia to an external Territory; or
(d) export from an external Territory to Australia; or
(e) export from an external Territory to another external Territory.
export from the sea, in relation to a specimen, means take in a Commonwealth marine area and then take out of that area to another country without bringing into Australia or into an external Territory.
import means:
(a) import into Australia or into an external Territory; or
(b) import by way of introduction from the sea;
but does not include:
(c) import into Australia from an external Territory; or
(d) import into an external Territory from Australia; or
(e) import into an external Territory from another external Territory.
import by way of introduction from the sea, in relation to a specimen, means take in the marine environment not under the jurisdiction of any country and then bring into Australia or into an external Territory without having been imported into any other country.
marine environment means the sea, and includes:
(a) the air space above the sea; and
(b) the seabed and subsoil beneath the sea.
recipient means:
(a) in relation to a specimen that is exported—the person in the country to which the specimen is exported who is to have the care and custody of the specimen after the export; and
(b) in relation to a specimen that is imported into Australia or into an external Territory—the person in Australia or that Territory, as the case may be, who is to have the care and custody of the specimen after the import.
relevant CITES authority, in relation to a country, means:
(a) if the country is a party to CITES—a Management Authority of that country; or
(b) if the country is not a party to CITES—a competent authority of that country within the meaning of Article X of CITES.
sender, in relation to a specimen that is imported into Australia or an external Territory, means the person in the country from which the specimen is imported who exports it from that country to Australia or to that Territory, as the case may be.
take includes:
(a) in relation to an animal—harvest, catch, capture, trap and kill; and
(b) in relation to a plant specimen—harvest, pick, gather and cut.
trade means trade within the ordinary meaning of that expression.
Note: See also section 528.
Division 2—CITES species
Subdivision A—CITES species and CITES specimens
303CA Listing of CITES species
(1) The Minister must, by instrument published in the Gazette, establish a list of CITES species for the purposes of this Act.
(2) The Minister must ensure that the list is established on the commencement of this section.
Note: See section 4 of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(3) The list must include all species from time to time included in any of Appendices I, II and III to CITES. The list must not include any other species.
(4) For each species included in the list, there is to be a notation:
(a) describing the specimens belonging to that species that are included in a particular Appendix to CITES; and
(b) identifying the Appendix in which the species is included; and
(c) identifying the date on which the provisions of CITES first applied to the specimens.
(5) A description mentioned in paragraph (4)(a):
(a) may cover all specimens that belong to the species; or
(b) may cover specified kinds of specimens that belong to the species; or
(c) may state that the inclusion of a specimen in a particular Appendix to CITES is subject to restrictions or conditions.
(6) A restriction or condition mentioned in paragraph (5)(c) may:
(a) impose a quantitative limit in relation to the export or import of a specimen; or
(b) relate to the imposition of a quota in relation to the export or import of specimens; or
(c) relate to a particular population of a species; or
(d) reflect any other restriction or condition set out in the relevant Appendix to CITES.
(7) Subsection (6) does not limit paragraph (5)(c).
(8) A notation in the list is to be consistent with CITES.
(9) The Minister may, by instrument published in the Gazette:
(a) correct an inaccuracy or update the name of a species; or
(b) amend the list, as necessary, so that it includes all species required to be included in the list under subsection (3); or
(c) amend the list, as necessary, so that the notations in the list are consistent with CITES.
(10) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) or (9) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
(11) For the purposes of this section, it is to be assumed that the definition of specimen in CITES includes a reference to a thing that is a specimen for the purposes of this Act.
Note: See also section 303CB.
303CB Stricter domestic measures
(1) The Minister may, by instrument published in the Gazette, declare that the list referred to in section 303CA has effect as if it were modified as set out in the declaration.
Note: For variation and revocation, see subsection 33(3) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(2) The Minister must not make a declaration under subsection (1) unless:
(a) the modification has the effect of treating a specified specimen that is included in Appendix II to CITES as if the specimen were included in Appendix I to CITES; or
(b) the modification has the effect of broadening the range of specimens included in a specified Appendix to CITES in relation to a specified species; or
(c) the modification has the effect of decreasing a quantitative limit in relation to the export or import of a specimen; or
(d) the modification has the effect of treating a specified specimen that is not included in Appendix I, II or III to CITES as if the specimen were included in Appendix I to CITES; or
(e) the modification has the effect of treating a specified specimen that is not included in Appendix I, II or III to CITES as if the specimen were included in Appendix II to CITES.
(3) An instrument under subsection (1) is a disallowable instrument for the purposes of section 46A of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(4) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
(5) A reference in this Act to the list referred to in section 303CA is a reference to that list as modified under this section.
Subdivision B—Offences and permit system
303CC Exports of CITES specimens
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if:
(a) the person exports a specimen; and
(b) the specimen is a CITES specimen.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 10 years or 1,000 penalty units, or both.
Authorised export—permit
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the specimen is exported in accordance with a permit that was issued under section 303CG, 303GB or 303GC and is in force.
Authorised export—CITES exemptions
(3) Subsection (1) does not apply if the export of the specimen is an export that, in accordance with a determination made by the Minister under the regulations, is taken to be part of a registered, non‑commercial exchange of scientific specimens between scientific organisations.
(4) Subsection (1) does not apply if the Minister issues a certificate under subsection (5) in relation to the specimen.
(5) If the Minister is satisfied that a specimen was acquired before the provisions of CITES applied to the specimen, the Minister may issue a certificate to that effect.
(6) Subsection (1) does not apply if the export of the specimen is an export that, under the regulations, is taken to be an export of a personal or household effect.
Note 1: See paragraph 3 of Article VII of CITES.
Note 2: The defendant bears an evidential burden in relation to the matters in subsections (2), (3), (4) and (6) (see subsection 13.3(3) of the Criminal Code).
303CD Imports of CITES specimens
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if:
(a) the person imports a specimen; and
(b) the specimen is a CITES specimen.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 10 years or 1,000 penalty units, or both.
Authorised import—permit
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the specimen is imported in accordance with a permit that was issued under section 303CG, 303GB or 303GC and is in force.
Authorised import—CITES exemptions
(3) Subsection (1) does not apply if the import of the specimen is an import that, under the regulations, is taken to be an import of a personal or household effect.
Note: See paragraph 3 of Article VII of CITES.
(4) Subsection (1) does not apply if:
(a) the specimen is a CITES II specimen; and
(b) the specimen is not a live specimen; and
(c) the specimen belongs to a species that is not specified in the regulations; and
(d) in a case where a quantitative limit is applicable to the specimen under a notation in the list referred to in section 303CA—the quantity of the specimen does not exceed that limit; and
(e) the specimen is within the personal baggage of a person entering Australia or an external Territory; and
(f) the specimen is not intended for sale or for any other commercial purpose; and
(g) both:
(i) the country from which the specimen is proposed to be imported has a relevant CITES authority; and
(ii) permission to export the specimen from that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country.
(5) Subsection (1) does not apply if the import of the specimen is an import that, in accordance with a determination made by the Minister under the regulations, is taken to be part of a registered, non‑commercial exchange of scientific specimens between scientific organisations.
(6) Subsection (1) does not apply if:
(a) the country from which the specimen is proposed to be imported has a relevant CITES authority; and
(b) a relevant CITES authority of that country has issued a certificate under paragraph 2 of Article VII of CITES in respect of the specimen.
Note 1: Paragraph 2 of Article VII of CITES deals with a specimen that was acquired before the provisions of CITES applied to the specimen.
Note 2: The defendant bears an evidential burden in relation to the matters in subsections (2), (3), (4), (5) and (6) (see subsection 13.3(3) of the Criminal Code).
303CE Applications for permits
(1) A person may, in accordance with the regulations, apply to the Minister for a permit to be issued under section 303CG.
(2) The application must be accompanied by the fee (if any) prescribed by the regulations.
303CF Further information
(1) The Minister may, within 40 business days after the application is made, request the applicant to give the Minister, within the period specified in the request, further information for the purpose of enabling the Minister to deal with the application.
(2) The Minister may refuse to consider the application until the applicant gives the Minister the information in accordance with the request.
303CG Minister may issue permits
(1) The Minister may, on application made by a person under section 303CE, issue a permit to the person. This subsection has effect subject to subsection (3).
(2) A permit authorises its holder to take the action or actions specified in the permit, in the permitted period, without breaching section 303CC, 303CD, 303DD or 303EK.
(2A) For the purpose of subsection (2), the permitted period is the period specified in the permit as the period during which the action or actions specified in the permit may be taken. The period so specified must start on the date of issue of the permit and end not later than 6 months after that date.
(3) The Minister must not issue a permit unless the Minister is satisfied that:
(a) the action or actions specified in the permit will not be detrimental to, or contribute to trade which is detrimental to:
(i) the survival of any taxon to which the specimen belongs; or
(ii) the recovery in nature of any taxon to which the specimen belongs; or
(iii) any relevant ecosystem (for example, detriment to habitat or biodiversity); and
(b) the specimen was not obtained in contravention of, and the action or actions specified in the permit would not involve the contravention of, any law of the Commonwealth, of a State or of a Territory; and
(c) if the specimen is a live specimen that belongs to a taxon specified in the regulations—the conditions that, under the regulations, are applicable to the welfare of the specimen have been, or are likely to be, complied with; and
(d) if any restriction or condition is applicable to the specimen under a notation in the list referred to in section 303CA—that restriction or condition has been, or is likely to be, complied with; and
(e) if the permit authorises the export of a CITES specimen:
(i) the proposed export would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose export (within the meaning of section 303FA); or
(ii) the relevant conditions set out in the table in section 303CH have been met; and
(f) if the permit authorises the import of a CITES specimen:
(i) the proposed import would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose import (within the meaning of section 303FB); or
(ii) the relevant conditions set out in the table in section 303CH have been met; and
(g) if:
(i) the permit authorises the import of a CITES II specimen; and
(ii) the proposed import would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose import (within the meaning of section 303FB);
the country from which the specimen is proposed to be imported has a relevant CITES authority and permission to export the specimen from that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country; and
(h) if the permit authorises the export of a CITES specimen that is a regulated native specimen—the conditions set out in subsection 303DG(4) have been met; and
(i) if the permit authorises the import of a CITES specimen that is a regulated live specimen—the conditions set out in subsection 303EN(3) have been met.
(4) Subsection (3) does not apply in relation to a permit to export from Australia or an external Territory a specimen (other than a live animal) that has been imported into Australia or that Territory, as the case may be.
(5) The Minister must not issue a permit to export a specimen (other than a live animal) that has been imported into Australia or an external Territory, unless the Minister is satisfied that:
(a) the specimen was lawfully imported (section 303GY); and
(b) if the specimen is a CITES I specimen:
(i) the country to which the specimen is proposed to be exported has a relevant CITES authority; and
(ii) permission to import that specimen into that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country.
(6) This section has effect subject to section 303GA.
Note: Section 303GA deals with controlled actions, and actions for which a non‑Part 13A permit is required.
303CH Specific conditions relating to the export or import of CITES specimens for commercial purposes
(1) The following table sets out the conditions mentioned in paragraphs 303CG(3)(e) and (f):
| Specific conditions |
| Item | Category of specimen | Action | Specific conditions |
| 1 | CITES I | Import | (a) the proposed import would be an import from an approved CITES‑registered captive breeding program in accordance with section 303FK; or (b) the specimen is, or is derived from, a plant that was artificially propagated (section 527C). |
| 2 | CITES I | Export | (a) the specimen is not a live native mammal, a live native amphibian, a live native reptile or a live native bird; and (b) the country to which the specimen is proposed to be exported has a relevant CITES authority, and permission to import that specimen into that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country; and (c) the proposed export would be an export from: (i) an approved CITES‑registered captive breeding program in accordance with section 303FK; or (ii) an approved artificial propagation program in accordance with section 303FL. |
| 3 | CITES II | Import | (a) for any specimen—the country from which the specimen is proposed to be imported has a relevant CITES authority and permission to export the specimen from that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country; and (b) for a specimen that: (i) is specified by the Minister in a notice published in the Gazette to be a declared specimen; and (ii) is not, or is not derived from, an animal that was bred in captivity (section 527B); and (iii) is not, or is not derived from, a plant that was artificially propagated (section 527C); the proposed import of the specimen would be an import from an approved commercial import program in accordance with section 303FU. |
| 4 | CITES II | Export | (a) the specimen is not a live native mammal, a live native amphibian, a live native reptile or a live native bird; and (b) the proposed export of the specimen would be: (i) an export from an approved captive breeding program in accordance with section 303FK; or (ii) an export from an approved artificial propagation program in accordance with section 303FL; or (iia) an export from an approved cultivation program in accordance with section 303FLA; or (iii) an export in accordance with an approved wildlife trade operation (section 303FN); or (iv) an export in accordance with an approved wildlife trade management plan (section 303FO). |
| 5 | CITES III | Import | The country from which the specimen is proposed to be imported has a relevant CITES authority, and permission to export the specimen from that country has been given by a relevant CITES authority of that country. |
| 6 | CITES III | Export | (a) the specimen is not a live native mammal, a live native amphibian, a live native reptile or a live native bird; and (b) the proposed export of the specimen would be: (i) an export from an approved captive breeding program in accordance with section 303FK; or (ii) an export from an approved artificial propagation program in accordance with section 303FL; or (iia) an export from an approved cultivation program in accordance with section 303FLA; or (iii) an export in accordance with an approved wildlife trade operation (section 303FN); or (iv) an export in accordance with an approved wildlife trade management plan (section 303FO). |
(2) A notice made under subparagraph (b)(i) of item 3 in the table in subsection (1) is not a legislative instrument.
303CI Time limit for making permit decision
If an application for a permit is made under section 303CE, the Minister must either issue, or refuse to issue, the permit within 40 business days after whichever is the latest of the following days:
(a) the day on which the application is made;
(b) if a request for further information in relation to the application is made under section 303CF—the day on which the applicant complies with the request;
(c) if section 303GA applies to the application—the day that is applicable under subsection 303GA(2).
303CJ Duration of permits
A permit under section 303CG:
(a) comes into force on the date on which it is issued; and
(b) unless it is sooner cancelled, remains in force until all of the following periods have ended:
(i) the permitted period (within the meaning of subsection 303CG(2A));
(ii) each period for which one or more conditions of the permit are expressed to apply.
303CK Register of applications and decisions
(1) As soon as practicable after the commencement of this section, the Minister must cause to be established a register that sets out:
(a) prescribed particulars of applications made under section 303CE after the establishment of the register; and
(b) prescribed particulars of decisions made by the Minister under section 303CG after the establishment of the register.
(2) The register may be maintained by electronic means.
(3) The register is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
Subdivision C—Application of CITES
303CL Application of CITES—Management Authority and Scientific Authority
For the purposes of the application of CITES to Australia:
(a) the Minister is the Management Authority; and
(b) the Secretary is the Scientific Authority.
303CM Interpretation of CITES provisions
(1) Except so far as the contrary intention appears, an expression that:
(a) is used in the CITES provisions without definition; and
(b) is used in CITES (whether or not it is defined in, or a particular meaning is assigned to it by, CITES);
has, in the CITES provisions, the same meaning as it has in CITES.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), the CITES provisions consist of:
(a) this Division; and
(b) any other provision of this Act in so far as that other provision relates to, or to permits under, this Division.
303CN Resolutions of the Conference of the Parties to CITES
(1) In making a decision under this Part in relation to a CITES specimen, the Minister may have regard to a relevant resolution of the Conference of the Parties under Article XI of CITES.
(2) Subsection (1) applies to a resolution, whether made before or after the commencement of this section.
Division 3—Exports of regulated native specimens
Subdivision A—Regulated native specimens
303DA Regulated native specimens
For the purposes of this Act, a regulated native specimen is a specimen that:
(a) is, or is derived from, a native animal or a native plant; and
(b) is not included in the list referred to in section 303DB.
303DB Listing of exempt native specimens
(1) The Minister must, by instrument published in the Gazette, establish a list of exempt native specimens.
(2) For each specimen included in the list, there is to be a notation that states whether the inclusion of the specimen in the list is subject to restrictions or conditions and, if so, the nature of those restrictions or conditions.
(3) A restriction or condition mentioned in subsection (2) may:
(a) consist of a quantitative limit in relation to the export of the specimen; or
(b) relate to the circumstances of the export of the specimen; or
(c) relate to the source of the specimen; or
(d) relate to the circumstances in which the specimen was taken or, if the specimen is derived from another specimen that was taken, the circumstances in which the other specimen was taken; or
(e) relate to an expiry date for the inclusion of the specimen on the list.
(4) Subsection (3) does not limit subsection (2).
(5) The list, as first established, must:
(a) contain the specimens referred to in Part I of Schedule 4 to the Wildlife Protection (Regulation of Exports and Imports) Act 1982, as in force immediately before the commencement of this section; and
(b) reflect the restrictions and conditions that are applicable to the inclusion of those specimens in that Part of that Schedule.
(6) The list must not include a specimen that belongs to an eligible listed threatened species unless:
(a) the Minister is satisfied that the export of the specimen will not:
(i) adversely affect the conservation status of the species concerned; and
(ii) be inconsistent with any recovery plan or wildlife conservation plan for that species; and
(aa) the Minister has had regard to any approved conservation advice for that species; and
(b) the inclusion of the specimen on the list is subject to a restriction or condition to the effect that:
(i) the specimen must be, or be derived from, a plant that was artificially propagated (section 527C); and
(ii) the specimen was propagated in an operation that has derived its stock in a way that did not breach a law of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory.
(7) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
303DC Minister may amend list
(1) The Minister may, by instrument published in the Gazette, amend the list referred to in section 303DB by:
(a) including items in the list; or
(b) deleting items from the list; or
(c) imposing a condition or restriction to which the inclusion of a specimen in the list is subject; or
(d) varying or revoking a condition or restriction to which the inclusion of a specimen in the list is subject; or
(e) correcting an inaccuracy or updating the name of a species.
(1A) In deciding whether to amend the list referred to in section 303DB to include a specimen derived from a commercial fishery, the Minister must rely primarily on the outcomes of any assessment in relation to the fishery carried out for the purposes of Division 1 or 2 of Part 10.
(1B) Subsection (1A) does not apply to an amendment mentioned in paragraph (1)(e).
(1C) Subsection (1A) does not limit the matters that may be taken into account in deciding whether to amend the list referred to in section 303DB to include a specimen derived from a commercial fishery.
(1D) In this section:
fishery has the same meaning as in section 303FN.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1)(e), correcting an inaccuracy includes ensuring that the list complies with subsection 303DB(5).
(3) Before amending the list referred to in section 303DB as mentioned in paragraph (1)(a), (b), (c) or (d) of this section, the Minister:
(a) must consult such other Minister or Ministers as the Minister considers appropriate; and
(b) must consult such other Minister or Ministers of each State and self‑governing Territory as the Minister considers appropriate; and
(c) may consult such other persons and organisations as the Minister considers appropriate.
(4) An instrument under subsection (1) (other than an instrument mentioned in paragraph (1)(e)) is a disallowable instrument for the purposes of section 46A of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(5) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
Subdivision B—Offence and permit system
303DD Exports of regulated native specimens
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if:
(a) the person exports a specimen; and
(b) the specimen is a regulated native specimen.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 10 years or 1,000 penalty units, or both.
Exemption—permit
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the specimen is exported in accordance with a permit that was issued under section 303CG, 303DG, 303GB or 303GC and is in force.
Exemption—accredited wildlife trade management plan
(3) Subsection (1) does not apply if:
(a) the export of the specimen would be an export in accordance with an accredited wildlife trade management plan (section 303FP); and
(b) the specimen is not a live native mammal, a live native reptile, a live native amphibian or a live native bird; and
(ba) either:
(i) the specimen is not a live terrestrial invertebrate, or a live freshwater fish, prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subparagraph; or
(ii) the export is an export from an approved aquaculture program in accordance with section 303FM; and
(c) the specimen is not a CITES specimen; and
(d) the specimen does not belong to an eligible listed threatened species.
Exemption—exchange of scientific specimens
(4) Subsection (1) does not apply if the export of the specimen is an export that, in accordance with a determination made by the Minister under the regulations, is taken to be part of a registered, non‑commercial exchange of scientific specimens between scientific organisations.
Note: The defendant bears an evidential burden in relation to the matters in subsections (2), (3) and (4) (see subsection 13.3(3) of the Criminal Code).
303DE Applications for permits
(1) A person may, in accordance with the regulations, apply to the Minister for a permit to be issued under section 303DG.
(2) The application must be accompanied by the fee (if any) prescribed by the regulations.
303DF Further information
(1) The Minister may, within 40 business days after the application is made, request the applicant to give the Minister, within the period specified in the request, further information for the purpose of enabling the Minister to deal with the application.
(2) The Minister may refuse to consider the application until the applicant gives the Minister the information in accordance with the request.
303DG Minister may issue permits
(1) The Minister may, on application made by a person under section 303DE, issue a permit to the person. This subsection has effect subject to subsections (3) to (4A).
(2) A permit authorises its holder to take the action or actions specified in the permit, in the permitted period, without breaching section 303DD.
(2A) For the purpose of subsection (2), the permitted period is the period specified in the permit as the period during which the action or actions specified in the permit may be taken. The period so specified must start on the date of issue of the permit and end not later than 3 years after that date.
(3) The Minister must not issue a permit authorising the export of a live native mammal, a live native reptile, a live native amphibian or a live native bird unless the Minister is satisfied that the proposed export would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose export (within the meaning of section 303FA).
(3A) The Minister must not issue a permit authorising the export of a live terrestrial invertebrate, or a live freshwater fish, prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of paragraph 303DD(3)(ba) unless the Minister is satisfied that:
(a) the proposed export would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose export (within the meaning of section 303FA); or
(b) the proposed export would be an export from an approved aquaculture program in accordance with section 303FM.
(4) The Minister must not issue a permit unless the Minister is satisfied that:
(a) the export of the specimen will not be detrimental to, or contribute to trade which is detrimental to:
(i) the survival of any taxon to which the specimen belongs; or
(ii) any relevant ecosystem (for example, detriment to habitat or biodiversity); and
(b) if the specimen is a live specimen that belongs to a taxon specified in the regulations—the conditions that, under the regulations, are applicable to the welfare of the specimen have been, or are likely to be, complied with; and
(c) the specimen was not obtained in contravention of, and the export would not involve the contravention of, any law of the Commonwealth, of a State or of a Territory; and
(d) if the specimen belongs to an eligible listed threatened species—the export of the specimen is covered by subsection (7) or (8), and the export would not be inconsistent with any recovery plan for that species; and
(e) if the specimen does not belong to an eligible listed threatened species:
(i) the proposed export would be an eligible non‑commercial purpose export (within the meaning of section 303FA); or
(ii) the proposed export would be an eligible commercial purpose export (within the meaning of section 303FJ).
(4A) If the Minister is considering whether to issue a permit relating to a specimen that belongs to a particular eligible listed threatened species, the Minister must, in deciding whether to issue the permit, have regard to any approved conservation advice for the species.
(5) Subsection (4) does not apply in relation to a permit to export from Australia or an external Territory a specimen (other than a live animal) that has been imported into Australia or that Territory, as the case may be.
(6) The Minister must not issue a permit to export from Australia or an external Territory a specimen (other than a live animal) that has been imported into Australia or that Territory, as the case may be, unless the Minister is satisfied that the specimen was lawfully imported (section 303GY).
Eligible listed threatened species
(7) This subsection covers the export of a specimen if:
(a) the export of the specimen would be an export from an approved captive breeding program in accordance with section 303FK; or
(b) the export of the specimen would be an export from an approved artificial propagation program in accordance with section 303FL; or
(ba) the export of the specimen would be an export from an approved cultivation program in accordance with section 303FLA; or
(c) the export of the specimen would be an export from an approved aquaculture program in accordance with section 303FM;
and the export of the specimen will not adversely affect the conservation status of the species concerned.
Note: See also subsection (3).
(8) This subsection covers the export of a specimen if:
(a) the export of the specimen would be an export for the purposes of research in accordance with section 303FC; or
(b) the export of the specimen would be an export for the purposes of education in accordance with section 303FD; or
(c) the export of the specimen would be an export for the purposes of exhibition in accordance with section 303FE; or
(d) the export of the specimen would be an export for the purposes of conservation breeding or propagation in accordance with section 303FF.
Section has effect subject to section 303GA
(9) This section has effect subject to section 303GA.
Note: Section 303GA deals with controlled actions, and actions for which a non‑Part 13A permit is required.
303DH Time limit for making permit decision
If an application for a permit is made under section 303DE, the Minister must either issue, or refuse to issue, the permit within 40 business days after whichever is the latest of the following days:
(a) the day on which the application is made;
(b) if a request for further information in relation to the application is made under section 303DF—the day on which the applicant complies with the request;
(c) if section 303GA applies to the application—the day that is applicable under subsection 303GA(2).
303DI Duration of permits
A permit under section 303DG:
(a) comes into force on the date on which it is issued; and
(b) unless it is sooner cancelled, remains in force until all of the following periods have ended:
(i) the permitted period (within the meaning of subsection 303DG(2A));
(ii) each period for which one or more conditions of the permit are expressed to apply.
303DJ Register of applications and decisions
(1) As soon as practicable after the commencement of this section, the Minister must cause to be established a register that sets out:
(a) prescribed particulars of applications made under section 303DE after the establishment of the register; and
(b) prescribed particulars of decisions made by the Minister under section 303DG after the establishment of the register.
(2) The register may be maintained by electronic means.
(3) The register is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
Division 4—Imports of regulated live specimens
Subdivision A—Regulated live specimens
303EA Regulated live specimens
For the purposes of this Act, a regulated live specimen is a specimen that:
(a) is a live animal or a live plant; and
(b) is not included in Part 1 of the list referred to in section 303EB.
303EB Listing of specimens suitable for live import
(1) The Minister must, by instrument published in the Gazette, establish a list of specimens that are taken to be suitable for live import.
(2) The list is to be divided into 2 Parts, as follows:
(a) Part 1 is to be a list of unregulated specimens;
(b) Part 2 is to be a list of allowable regulated specimens.
(3) The list may only contain specimens that are live animals or live plants.
(4) Part 1 of the list, as first established, must contain only the specimens referred to in Part I of Schedule 5 or Part I of Schedule 6 to the Wildlife Protection (Regulation of Exports and Imports) Act 1982, as in force immediately before the commencement of this section.
(5) Part 1 of the list must not contain a CITES specimen.
(6) Part 1 of the list is taken to include a live plant the introduction of which into Australia is in accordance with the Quarantine Act 1908.
(7) For each specimen included in Part 2 of the list (except a specimen referred to in subsection (11A)), there is to be a notation that states whether the inclusion of the specimen in that part of the list is subject to restrictions or conditions and, if so, the nature of those restrictions or conditions.
(8) A restriction or condition referred to in subsection (7) may:
(a) consist of a quantitative limit in relation to the import of the specimen; or
(b) relate to the circumstances of the import of the specimen; or
(c) relate to the source of the specimen; or
(d) relate to the circumstances in which the specimen was taken.
(9) Subsection (8) does not limit subsection (7).
(10) Part 2 of the list, as first established, must contain only specimens that were, at any time before the commencement of this section, the subject of an import permit granted under the Wildlife Protection (Regulation of Exports and Imports) Act 1982.
(11) For the purposes of subsection (10), a specimen is taken to have been the subject of an import permit if, and only if, the specimen was identified in the permit at the species or sub‑species level.
(11A) Part 2 of the list is taken to include a live plant that:
(a) is a CITES specimen; and
(b) is introduced into Australia in accordance with the Quarantine Act 1908.
(12) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
303EC Minister may amend list
(1) The Minister may, by instrument published in the Gazette, amend the list referred to in section 303EB by:
(a) including items in a particular part of the list; or
(b) deleting items from a particular part of the list; or
(c) correcting an inaccuracy or updating the name of a species; or
(d) imposing a restriction or condition to which the inclusion of a specimen in Part 2 of the list is subject; or
(e) varying or revoking a restriction or condition to which the inclusion of a specimen in Part 2 of the list is subject.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1)(c), correcting an inaccuracy includes ensuring that the list complies with subsections 303EB(4) and (10).
(3) Before amending the list referred to in section 303EB as mentioned in paragraph (1)(a), (b), (d) or (e) of this section, the Minister:
(a) must consult such other Minister or Ministers as the Minister considers appropriate; and
(b) must consult such other Minister or Ministers of each State and self‑governing Territory as the Minister considers appropriate; and
(c) may consult such other persons and organisations as the Minister considers appropriate.
(4) An instrument under subsection (1) (other than an instrument mentioned in paragraph (1)(c)) is a disallowable instrument for the purposes of section 46A of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(5) The Minister must not amend the list referred to in section 303EB by including an item in the list, unless:
(a) the amendment is made following consideration of a relevant report under section 303ED or 303EE; or
(b) the amendment is made following consideration of a relevant review under section 303EJ.
(6) A copy of an instrument under subsection (1) is to be made available for inspection on the internet.
Subdivision B—Assessments relating to the amendment of the list of specimens suitable for import
303ED Amendment of list on the Minister’s own initiative
(1) The Minister may formulate a proposal for the list referred to in section 303EB to be amended by including an item.
(2) Unless subsection (3) applies, the Minister must:
(a) cause to be conducted an assessment of the potential impacts on the environment of the proposed amendment; and
(b) cause to be prepared a report on those impacts.
The report must be prepared in accordance with section 303EF and be given to the Minister.
(3) This subsection applies if:
(a) Biosecurity Australia has prepared a report (whether before or after the amendment was proposed) on the potential impacts on the environment if the specimen were to be imported; and
(b) the report is of a type specified in regulations made for the purposes of this paragraph; and
(c) the report is given to the Minister; and
(d) the Minister determines that subsection (2) does not apply to the proposed amendment.
(4) A determination made under paragraph (3)(d) is not a legislative instrument.
303EE Application for amendment of list
(1) A person may, in accordance with the regulations, apply to the Minister for the list referred to in section 303EB to be amended by including an item.
(2) The Minister must not consider the application unless either subsection (3) or (4) applies to the proposed amendment.
(3) This subsection applies to the proposed amendment if:
(a) subsection (4) does not apply to the proposed amendment; and
(b) an assessment is made of the potential impacts on the environment of the proposed amendment; and
(c) a report on those impacts is given to the Minister.
The report must be prepared in accordance with section 303EF.
(4) This subsection applies to the proposed amendment if:
(a) Biosecurity Australia has prepared a report (whether before or after the amendment was proposed) on the potential impacts on the environment if the specimen were to be imported; and
(b) the report is of a type specified in regulations made for the purposes of this paragraph; and
(c) the report has been given to the Minister; and
(d) the Minister determines that subsection (3) does not apply to the proposed amendment.
(5) A determination made under paragraph (4)(d) is not a legislative instrument.
303EF Requirement for assessments
(1) The assessment under subsection 303ED(2) or 303EE(3) must provide for:
(a) if the Minister determines that this paragraph applies—the preparation of terms of reference for a report on the relevant impacts; or
(b) if the Minister determines that this paragraph applies—all of the following:
(i) the preparation of draft terms of reference for a report on the relevant impacts;
(ii) the publication of the draft terms of reference for public comment for a period of at least 10 business days that is specified by the Minister;
(iii) the finalisation of the terms of reference, to the Minister’s satisfaction, taking into account the comments (if any) received on the draft terms of reference.
(2) The assessment must also provide for:
(a) the preparation of a draft of a report on the relevant impacts; and
(b) the publication of the draft report for public comment for a period of at least 20 business days that is specified by the Minister; and
(c) the finalisation of the report, taking into account the comments (if any) received after publication of the draft report; and
(d) any other matter prescribed by the regulations.
(3) A determination made under paragraph (1)(a) or (b) is not a legislative instrument.
303EG Timing of decision about proposed amendment
(1) If the Minister receives a report under section 303ED or 303EE in relation to a proposed amendment, the Minister must decide whether or not to make the proposed amendment within:
(a) 30 business days; or
(b) if the Minister, by writing, specifies a longer period—that longer period;
after the first business day after the day on which the report was received.
Notice of extension of time
(2) If the Minister specifies a longer period for the purposes of subsection (1), he or she must:
(a) if section 303EE applies—give a copy of the specification to the applicant; and
(b) publish the specification in accordance with the regulations.
303EH Requesting further information
(1) If:
(a) section 303EE applies; and
(b) the Minister believes on reasonable grounds that he or she does not have enough information to make an informed decision whether or not to make the proposed amendment;
the Minister may request the applicant to give the Minister, within the period specified in the request, information relevant to making the decision.
(2) The Minister may refuse to consider the application until the applicant gives the Minister the information in accordance with the request.
303EI Notice of refusal of proposed amendment
If section 303EE applies and the Minister refuses to make the proposed amendment, the Minister must give the applicant notice of the refusal.
303EJ Reviews
If, following consideration of a relevant report under section 303ED or 303EE, the Minister has made a decision to include, or refusing to include, an item in the list referred to in section 303EB, the Minister may review that decision at any time during the period of 5 years after the decision was made.
Subdivision C—Offence and permit system
303EK Imports of regulated live specimens
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if:
(a) the person imports a specimen; and
(b) the specimen is a regulated live specimen.
Penalty: Imprisonment for 10 years or 1,000 penalty units, or both.
Exemption—permit
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply if:
(a) the specimen is included in Part 2 of the list referred to in section 303EB; and
(b) the specimen is imported in accordance with a permit that was issued under section 303CG, 303EN, 303GB or 303GC and is in force.
Exemption—testing permit
(3) Subsection (1) does not apply if the specimen is imported in accordance with a permit that was issued under section 303GD and is in force.
Note: The defendant bears an evidential burden in relation to the matters in subsections (2) and (3) (see subsection 13.3(3) of the Criminal Code).
303EL Applications for permits
(1) A person may, in accordance with the regulations, apply to the Minister for a permit to be issued under section 303EN.
(2) The application must be accompanied by the fee (if any) prescribed by the regulations.
303EM Further information
(1) The Minister may, within 40 business days after the application is made, request the applicant to give the Minister, within the period specified in the request, further information for the purpose of enabling the Minister to deal with the application.
(2) The Minister may refuse to consider the application until the applicant gives the Minister the information in accordance with the request.
303EN Minister may issue permits
(1) The Minister may, on application made by a person under section 303EL, issue a permit to the person. This subsection has effect subject to subsection (3).
(2) A permit authorises its holder to take the action or actions specified in the permit, in the permitted period, without breaching section 303EK.
(2A) For the purpose of subsection (2), the permitted period is the period specified in the permit as the period during which the action or actions specified in the permit may be taken. The period so specified must start on the date of issue of the permit and end not later than 3 years after that date.
(3) The Minister must not issue a permit unless the Minister is satisfied that:
(a) the proposed import would not be:
(i) likely to threaten the conservation status of a species or ecological community; or
(ii) likely to threaten biodiversity; and
(b) the specimen is included in Part 2 of the list referred to in section 303EB; and
(c) if any restriction or condition is applicable to the specimen under a notation in Part 2 of the list referred to in section 303EB—that restriction or condition has been, or is likely to be, complied with; and
(d) the specimen was not obtained in contravention of, and the import would not involve the contravention of, any law of the Commonwealth, of a State or of a Territory; and
(e) if the specimen belongs to a taxon specified in the regulations—the conditions that, under the regulations, are applicable to the welfare of the specimen have been, or are likely to be, complied with.
(4) This section has effect subject to section 303GA.
Note: Section 303GA deals with controlled actions, and actions for which a non‑Part 13A permit is required.
303EO Time limit for making permit decision
If an application for a permit is made under section 303EL, the Minister must either issue, or refuse to issue, the permit within 40 business days after whichever is the latest of the following days:
(a) the day on which the application is made;
(b) if a request for further information in relation to the application is made under section 303EM—the day on which the applicant complies with the request;
(c) if section 303GA applies to the application—the day that is applicable under subsection 303GA(2).
303EP Duration of permits
A permit under section 303EN:
(a) comes into force on the date on which it is issued; and
(b) unless it is sooner cancelled, remains in force until all of the following periods have ended:
(i) the permitted period (within the meaning of subsection 303EN(2A));
(ii) each period for which one or more conditions of the permit are expressed to apply.
303EQ Register of applications and decisions
(1) As soon as practicable after the commencement of this section, the Minister must cause to be established a register that sets out:
(a) prescribed particulars of applications made under section 303EL after the establishment of the register; and
(b) prescribed particulars of decisions made by the Minister under section 303EN after the establishment of the register.
(2) The register may be maintained by electronic means.
(3) The register is to be made av