Simplified trade reforms

Reforms underway

Austrade, in collaboration with our partner agencies, Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) continue to make progress to simplify import and export systems and deliver benefits to Australian traders.

Regulatory Reform Policy Frameworks 

To support the development and implementation of the cross-agency measure at 2023-24 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO), Austrade and its Simplified Trade System partner agencies have developed 4 policy frameworks to support delivery and guide future policy development for better aligned rules for cross-border trade and streamlined models for government and trade business interactions. These are:

• Fit and Proper Person Policy Framework (PDF 610KB, DOCX 406KB)
• Trade Identity Policy Framework (PDF 920KB, DOCX 1.5MB)
• Border Controls Whole-of-Government Policy Framework (PDF 551KB, DOCX 393KB)
• Cross-Border Trade Data Sharing Policy Framework (PDF 497KB, DOCX 374KB)

Programs to simplify import systems

The following programs are underway to improve and simplify import systems:

• Simplified Targeting and Enhanced Processing System (STEPS), led by DAFF. Over $600 million in financial benefits over 10 years will accrue through a modern biosecurity regulatory system and simplified biosecurity import processes.
• A Digital Trade Accelerator Program (DTAP), led by ABF, to deliver incremental benefits to business and the community, through enhanced risk-profiling and improved trade-related data sharing.
• Streamlining the Cargo Intervention Model (SCIM), designed by ABF, will reduce time and costs for industry and get imported goods to supply chain partners more quickly.

Measures to improve export processes and services

The following programs are underway to improve export processes and services:

• Digital Services to Take Farmers to Markets (TFTM), led by DAFF, will reduce the time it takes for products to get to export markets.
• Agricultural traceability, led by DAFF, coordinating a national, cross-sectoral strategy that supports investment, partnerships, data frameworks and digital innovation through collaborative implementation with industry and government.
• Expanding the Go Global Toolkit service offerings to help more Australian businesses with deeper export insights and market opportunities, including to improve navigation, provide businesses with free export webinars available live and on demand, through the GGT Export Academy. 

Simpler cross-border trade rules

Simplification of cross-border trade rules through exploring options to implement the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) to support transitioning to paperless trade. Led by the Attorney General's Department, this reform would allow businesses to use electronic versions of key trade documents like bills of lading.

Contact us

Email: stsunit@austrade.gov.au