Customs Act 1901 and the export of tangible goods

Under the Customs Act 1901, tangible items listed on the DSGL require a Defence Export Controls (DEC) permit to be transferred from Australia to overseas. DEC permits are issued and approved by Minister for Defence and must also be accompanied by a Customs Declaration for export purposes.

The export of controlled technology- e.g. printed blueprints, plans or DSGL technology on storage devices such as USB or laptops - by tangible means is also controlled by the Customs Act 1901 and requires a DEC permit. This includes scenarios where the media storage device is sent via postal service or is carried in hand-held or checked luggage.

Researchers should ensure they have obtained appropriate permits or licences as may be required for any materials that are to be exported well in advance. Customs Declarations may be supplied by a customs broker if you are using one.