Warehouse and depot compliance regulatory compliance is more important, and more complex, than ever
The ABF see section 77G depots and section 79 warehouses as an extension of the Australian border and expect high levels of compliance from depot and warehouse licensees. These high expectations have resulted in the following:
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The expanding of the depot and warehouse licensing conditions
An increase in ABF compliance activities
An increase in the issuing of infringement notices for alleged breaches of license conditions and the Customs Act 1901
In some instances we have seen the ABF attempt to cancel a licence in response to continued non-compliance. The message from the ABF is clear, if you want to maintain a s77G depot or s79 warehouse licence, you need to show high levels of compliance.
In our experience, depot and warehouse operators experience much better outcomes by responding fully to the ABF at the earliest stages. Quick and brief responses may seem efficient, however, an incomplete response can result in a matter quickly escalating.
CGT Law has worked with a range of depot and warehouse operators concerning:
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Initial licence applications
Responding to identified non-compliance
Disputing infringement notices
A notice of the intended suspension or cancellation of a licence
Developing quality assurance programs
Identified issues may relate to security of the premises, individuals in controlled areas, movement of goods under customs control, cargo reporting and outturning of goods and training requirements.
From a commercial perspective, CGT Law helps warehouses with the following commercial documents:
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Standard terms and conditions or trade
Service level agreements
3PL agreements
Credit applications
In addition to licenced warehouse and depots, we also assist Regulated Air Cargo Agents (RACA) with compliance and licensing issues.
