Export assurance reform for non-prescribed goods

18 May 2026

AFGC recognises DAFF’s high-level intent to modernise export assurance arrangements for
non-prescribed goods and to maintain confidence in Australia’s export system and market access settings.

However, industry is not yet in a position to assess the full impact or net benefit of the proposed
framework, as key elements (including scope application, process design, data requirements and
transitional arrangements) require further detail. DAFF have also indicated cost recovery modelling is
underway and they plan to consult on the nature and timing of proposed fees and charges later in 2026.
Consistent with this, AFGC members have indicated they will need to undertake whole-of-business
analysis to understand resourcing, systems and administrative implications and to provide comprehensive, evidence-based feedback.

This submission represents AFGC members across food, beverage and grocery manufacturing who export
non-prescribed goods, including businesses with mixed export portfolios spanning multiple commodity
categories and regulatory regimes. The submission focuses on implementation feasibility, regulatory
certainty (including scope/definitions and treatment of mixed portfolios), systems integration to avoid
duplication, and communication and change management to support compliance.

Members have also highlighted the difficulty of planning for transition against the indicative timing of
proposed changes, particularly in the current operating environment. Exporters will require adequate lead
time, clear guidance and a sequenced transition pathway to avoid unintended impact.