Importing Seeds Made Clearer: Key Changes to Testing and Compliance

Importing seeds into Australia is a highly regulated process - and for good reason. Seeds can carry pests, diseases, and contaminants that pose serious risks to our agriculture and environment, which is why our country has some of the strictest biosecurity measures in the world.

With regulations constantly evolving, staying informed is critical. And right now, there’s an important update you need to know about: new requirements for importing tomato and capsicum seeds into Australia.

From 12 November 2025, only test results from department-authorised seed pathogen laboratories will be accepted to verify that seeds are free from Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) and Tomato mottle mosaic virus (ToMMV).

These changes are part of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) ongoing efforts to protect Australian crops from plant pathogens. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the new rules now is essential to avoid delays or unexpected costs.

Who Needs to Take Action

• Importers of tomato and capsicum seeds for sowing from any country.
• Customs brokers managing these shipments.

If you are importing these seeds, you need to start using authorised laboratories as soon as possible. Laboratories not yet authorised must register with DAFF to be able to test seeds for export to Australia.

What You Need to Know

Transition Period:

A 6-week transition period will allow consignments tested under the previous rules to continue being accepted.
After 12 November, any seeds tested by non-authorised laboratories may be subject to onshore testing at the importer’s expense or be exported or destroyed.

Import Permit Updates:

DAFF will vary affected import permits at no cost.
Importers should ensure their permits are updated to reflect the new testing requirements.

Practical Steps for Importers:

Review the initial list of authorised seed pathogen laboratories published on DAFF’s website.
Check that any laboratory you plan to use is authorised for ToBRFV and ToMMV testing.
Plan shipments carefully to avoid delays once the new rules are mandatory.

Why It Matters

These updated testing requirements are not just a regulatory hurdle, they protect Australia’s agriculture and horticulture industries from potentially devastating plant diseases. Even a single infected seed lot could threaten crops, livelihoods, and export markets.

By using authorised laboratories and complying with the new rules, importers reduce the risk of rejected consignments, costly onshore testing, or plant disease outbreaks.

Support for Importers

Navigating changes like this can be complex, especially for first-time or small-scale importers. At Australian Customs Clearance, we provide guidance to ensure you understand the new requirements, use authorised testing laboratories correctly, and keep your shipments moving smoothly.

For more information on authorised seed testing laboratories and the new testing rules, visit the DAFF website or contact our team of customs brokers for expert advice.