Below are some answers to commonly asked questions around permits, permit applications and import/export regulations. If you do not find the answer to your question, please contact us.
How long does it take for applications to be processed?
Please allow at least 60 business days for applications to be processed.
How much information do I need to provide on the applying/renewing permit application form?
You should provide comprehensive responses to all relevant questions on the form to avoid delays in processing your application.
Applicants will need to demonstrate they will comply with all relevant laws including work health and safety, environmental protection and dangerous goods laws and dangerous goods transport laws, including labelling and packaging. See the transporting asbestos page.
Permits can be granted as a single use or multiple use.
Multiple use permits are mostly issued for the importation of samples for the purpose of analysis, and the permit may be valid for up to 2 years.
What happens if my application is successful?
Successful applicants will receive the permit in writing containing a unique permit number. The permit number is provided to the Australian Border Force (ABF) and a copy of the permit must be provided to the ABF if requested at the border.
Complying with all applicable laws, including for importation and/or exportation, handling, labelling, packaging and disposing of asbestos is a condition of all permits.
Find out more about Permit holder responsibilities
A permit amendment will be required before importing or exporting asbestos or goods that may contain asbestos, which are not specifically covered under a current permit. See further details below on how to request an amendment to a permit.
Where do I find information on lodging import and export declarations?
Import Declarations are required for all imports that contain, or may contain, asbestos including samples. Find out more at: Australian Border Force: Import declaration.
Export Declarations, including the asbestos export permit number and the appropriate Australian Harmonised Export Commodity Code (AHECC) used to describe the goods, are required for all exports that contain or may contain asbestos, including samples. Find out more at: Australian Border Force: Export declaration.
Who decides if my application should be granted?
Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the case, the decision-maker can either be the ASSEA CEO or the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations.
The decision-maker has discretion to grant permission and can refuse to grant if deemed a risk to the border or if they believe safeguards are inadequate to protect health and safety. Refusals are not appealable.
Applications received for circumstances outside of the prescribed permissible purposes cannot be lawfully processed and will be rejected. Permit guidelines will provide more information.
Can I request an amendment to my permit?
Yes, the decision-maker has discretion to amend a permit.
Please allow at least 30 business days for a decision to be made on an amendment application.
Applications to amend a permit can be made by emailing permits@asbestossafety.gov.au and providing relevant details.
What does the permissible purpose display refer to?
Goods containing asbestos to be imported for display in a government-administered museum or gallery will be considered for import permission provided the applicant supplies written guarantees of adequate safety measures during transport, storage and display, supported by an asbestos management plan.
Importing a classic car, containing asbestos parts/components, for the intention of display at vehicle shows will not meet the permissible purpose of display and will not be considered for import permission.