DAFF IFIS Declarations
The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has commenced additional verification activities relating to Imported Food Inspection Scheme (IFIS) importer declarations for cheese products entering Australia.
Official DAFF Notice 22/05/2026
DAFF IFN 08-26 – Verification of importer declarations for cheese
These verification activities specifically target declarations used for cheese products that are classified as:
- Cheese made from unpasteurised milk
- Cheese declared as not supporting the growth of Listeria monocytogenes
What This Means for Importers
DAFF may now request supporting technical documentation to validate IFIS importer declarations lodged through the Cargo Online Lodgement System (COLS).
Requested documentation may include:
- Product specification sheets
- pH and water activity results
- Shelf-life validation reports
- Manufacturer declarations
Scientific or microbiological evidence relating to Listeria monocytogenes growth controls
Important Operational Impact Clients importing cheese products into Australia should expect:
DAFF has also reiterated that providing false or misleading information is considered a serious offence under Australian import legislation. FJT Logistics Recommendation To avoid unnecessary delays and intervention at the border, FJT Logistics strongly recommends that all importers ensure the following documentation is available prior to shipment arrival:
Accurate commercial descriptions matching import documentation |
