About export permits
Permission is required to export high activity radioactive sources and high activity aggregations of radioactive sources in a single shipment. The definition of a high activity radioactive source is found in the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958. For further information, see definition of a high activity radioactive source.
Persons intending to export high activity radioactive sources from Australia should note the following:
- In order to export a high activity radioactive source or high activity aggregated sources, the exporting party must have a valid export permit signed by an authorised ARPANSA officer.
- The exporting party must enter an export permit number and the correct AHECC code into the Australian Customs Integrated Cargo System (ICS) in order for the shipment to be cleared.
Implementation of export controls fulfils Australia’s obligations under the IAEA’s Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources (Code of Conduct). Further information about the Code of Conduct and its supplementary Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources can be found at http://www-ns.iaea.org/tech-areas/radiation-safety/code-of-conduct.htm. Further information, see Regulatory requirements for export of high activity radioactive sources.
Application form
Download and complete the application form:
The applicant stated on the permit application must:
- be the exporter of the goods
- be the stated licence holder
- be suitably licensed with the appropriate regulatory authority
- ensure the importer of the source has all necessary approvals and authorisations required by the regulatory authority in the receiving Australian state
- sign and date the completed application.
Note: An export permit is required for each shipment of high activity radioactive sources.
Submission of the application
The applicant must submit the original completed application to the address contained in the form.
Fees
See Import and export permits for more information on permit fee structure.
Processing time
Applications may take up to 28 working days to process depending on the shipment specifics, intended destination and route of the proposed export.
To the extent practicable, Australia is obliged to notify the importing state of the export of high activity radioactive sources at least seven calendar days in advance of the shipment. The time to process an application takes into consideration the time allowed for shipment notification. Applicants should make themselves familiar with the projected processing timeframes when lodging their application.
The approved export permit will be returned to either the applicant or the applicant’s customs agent by the method nominated in the application form.
Declaration of a high activity radioactive source export to Customs ICS
The exporter must declare the high activity radioactive nature of the goods to Customs by using the specific Australian Harmonized Export Commodity Classification (AHECC) code for high activity radioactive source exports.
As of 1 January 2015 the AHECC code: 28444010 should be used to identify a high activity radioactive source shipment in the Customs Integrated Cargo System (ICS) prior to export.
Contact
Import & Export Coordinator
Email: export@arpansa.gov.au
