Export Control (Poultry Meat and Poultry Meat Products) Rules 2021

This legislation sets out the rules for exporting poultry meat and poultry meat products from Australia. It covers:

What it does:

• Establishes which poultry products need export permits and government certificates
• Sets requirements for processing facilities (registered establishments) including hygiene standards, equipment, and amenities for government inspectors
• Creates a system of "approved arrangements" where businesses can manage their own compliance with government oversight
• Specifies five mandatory conditions for export: meeting importing country requirements, using registered establishments, having approved arrangements, giving notice of intention to export, and holding valid export permits
• Details rules for official marks (like "Australia Inspected" stamps), trade descriptions (labelling), and seals on containers
• Establishes processes for allocating government meat inspection services to processing facilities
• Sets record-keeping requirements (2-3 years depending on the record type)

Who it affects:

• Poultry meat exporters and processing businesses
• Operators of registered establishments (slaughterhouses, processing plants)
• Government authorised officers who inspect facilities and products
• Approved auditors who conduct compliance audits

Why it matters: The rules ensure Australian poultry exports meet food safety standards and importing country requirements, protecting Australia's reputation for quality food exports and maintaining market access. Breaches can result in criminal offences or civil penalties.