- 24 March 2025
Could your goods be subjected to Defence Export Controls?
The Australian Department of Defence controls the export of goods that are considered “Defence and Related Goods” and “Dual Use” both within and outside of Australia.
What you need to know?
Any person or entity wishing to export, supply, publish or broker ‘controlled’ Defence and Strategic Goods List items will need to lodge a permit application with the Australian Department of Defence (unless an exemption applies), while meeting obligations around reporting and compliance.
Failure to do so may lead to a financial penalty, imprisonment or both. In some cases, a permit may not be required but goods may be held for assessment, resulting in delays to your shipment.
Defence and Strategic Goods List (DSGL)
Currently there are over 2,500 unique items subjected to Defence Export Controls. These goods are separated into 2 categories:
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Part 1: Munitions List (goods designed or modified for military use).
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Part 2: Dual-use list (these are equipment and technologies developed to meet commercial needs, but which may be used either as military components, or for the development or production of military systems or weapons of mass destruction).
Dual-use Goods
Part 2 of the DSGL is made up of 10 categories:
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Nuclear Materials
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Materials, Chemicals, Microorganisms and Toxins
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Materials Processing
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Electronics
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Computers
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Telecommunications and Information Security
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Sensors and Lasers
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Navigation and Avionics
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Marine
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Aerospace and Propulsion
It is important to be aware that certain items, such as equipment, software, and technology, may fall under these dual-use categories. It is also worth noting that some general-use goods, such as pumps, heat exchangers, centrifuges, compressors, and vacuums, can be included within these categories.
How to prevent your goods from being delayed?
To determine if your goods are subject to the DSGL, you can conduct a pre-assessment using the self-help tool, accessible via the My Australian Defence Exports portal, which can help you clarify and direct you to the correct information.
How can Mainfreight help?
Navigating the Defence Export Controls can be complex but Mainfreight is here to simplify the process for you. Our extensive experience in logistics and compliance ensures that we can assist you every step of the way:
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Expert Guidance
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Resources
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Compliance