August News Brief
Dear Friends,
Western Australia remains a vital hub for trade for FJT, where new investment has been recently made. Our Perth branch is proud to play its part in supporting local industries and connecting them into FJT’s global network of 15 branches.
Over recent months, the branch has reorganised its operations to improve workflows, increase capacity and further strengthen safety. For our customers, this means smoother processes, quicker response times and the confidence that their cargo is being managed with care.
Our new Branch Manager, Heather Brojanowski, brings more than ten years of logistics experience and is guiding the team with a clear focus on customer partnerships.
“Perth has a unique role to play in trade. For me, the most important part is building trust with our customers and making sure we give them the reliability they need to grow their businesses,” Heather shares.
Together with our branches in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide — and our expanding presence in Auckland, Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Shanghai — Perth helps strengthen FJT’s position across Australasia, ensuring we remain close to our customers wherever they do business.
We thank you for your continued trust in FJT.
Warmest Regards,
The FJT Team
Biosecurity & Customs
Packing Declarations - Issuing Entity and Validity
- Biosecurity import conditions require that an acceptable Packing Declaration be issued by the entity that physically packed the goods into a container (FCL or LCL). This must be a party with direct oversight of the packing process—typically the supplier, exporter, or factory-based packer.
- Where a Packing Declaration is issued by an entity located in Country B, but the goods were packed in Country A, the Department expects a clear explanation of how the declarant either conducted or directly observed the packing. General statements about packaging procedures or supply chain controls are not sufficient. In the absence of a valid declaration, the consignment may be directed for onshore management (inspection) prior to release.
- Please note, onshore management can include compliance activity against both the importer and the lodging Customs Broker/Brokerage. Accordingly, inconsistencies identified will be brought to your attention by the lodging broker at the time of assessment.
- Importers are reminded to ensure the issuing party of the packing declaration has appropriate visibility over the packing to avoid delays or non-compliance.
Applications Now Open for 2025-26 Safeguarding Arrangement Scheme
DAFF has opened applications for the Safeguarding Arrangement Scheme for the 2025–26 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) risk season, with mandatory updates now in effect. The scheme is available to Biosecurity Industry Participants, Suppliers, Customs Brokers, and others involved in importing goods requiring increased biosecurity intervention.
Key updates include a revised application form, mandatory use of the Biosecurity Mitigation & Contingency Plan template, and a new Importer’s Declaration requirement. All applications must include detailed documentation of supply chain processes, with indoor storage remaining a critical eligibility requirement. Outdoor storage may be accepted only under strict, evidence-based conditions.
Applications will not be backdated, and goods shipped before approval will be subject to standard BMSB seasonal measures.
Further information is available on the DAFF website, with support via the Safeguarding email [email protected].
Lead the Way with the Latest Supply Chain Developments
FJT Market Update
FJT Market Update – July Edition Now Available!
Stay ahead with the latest insights to keep your supply chain running smoothly.
What’s inside:
Market Outlook & Developments – key trends and performance pulse
Cancelled Sailings & Schedule Reliability – critical updates to watch
Global Port Throughput Index (PTI) – capacity and flow indicators
Regional Bulletins: Asia-Pacific & Europe – focused market snapshots
Discover the data and trends for smarter decisions this month.
