Compliance agreements provide alternative to Imported Food Inspection Scheme testing

Are you a food importer whose food management system cover some, or all, of the following?

• approved supplier programs
• product specifications
• verification that food received complies
• corrective action procedures to address non-compliance when found
• traceability and stock control processes

If so, you may not need to have your imports inspected and tested under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme (IFIS). Instead, a Food Import Compliance Agreement (fica) is an assurance and audit arrangement where food importers can get formal recognition of their food management system.

Many importers report that a compliance agreement provides faster and more convenient clearance of their products into Australia. If your business already has a documented food management system that ensures that your food complies with Australia’s import standards, then a compliance agreement may be suitable for you. Under a compliance agreement, DAFF will recognise your documented food management system for sourcing and importing. The outcome is that DAFF will reduce the rate of regulatory intervention on your supply chain.

You must have a documented food management system that verifies that your imports comply with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

The food safety and compliance system criteria are based on Australian Standard ISO 22000:2005 (Food safety management systems - requirements for any organisation in the food chain) and include requirements for:

• manufacturer assurance
• food safety and compliance assessments
• process control (on arrival clearance)
• traceability
• verification

As a voluntary arrangement, importers must submit an application to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to enter into a compliance agreement.

Any food imported under a compliance agreement is still subject to Australia’s biosecurity requirements under the Quarantine Act 1908 and its subordinate legislation.

Information about compliance agreements for imported food can be found on the DAFF website or by contacting the Imported Food Program on 02 6272 3933 or email fica.