Importing seed to Western Australia

Page last updated: Thursday, 29 July 2021 - 1:10pm

Please note: This content may be out of date and is currently under review.

Western Australia is free from many pests and diseases that may be carried on seed. Many seeds themselves may also pose a threat of becoming a weed in our state.

There is currently over 940 seeds prohibited into Western Australia. A further 127 seed species are currently banned to stop the spread of the environmental disease Myrtle rust which could decimate our native flora.

The Department of  Primary Industries and Regional Development's Quarantine WA service enforces strict biosecurity legislation, so please check for any import restrictions to avoid a costly fine or even prosecution.

When importing seed into Western Australia, the first thing to do is ensure they are of a permitted species. You can check this via the Western Australian Organism List (WAOL). You will need to know the full latin name of the seed species to search this list.

Once you have determined that your seed can enter Western Australia you will need to check if there are any other conditions of entry required in the Quarantine WA Import Requirements Search. Quarantine WA also publishes a Seed Manual to help you understand WA entry requirements, and contains details of certification bodies. This manual can be accessed and downloaded from the Western Australia’s seed import requirements webpage.

It is important to ensure that your seed is declared to Quarantine WA for inspection and verification on arrival into the state. Commercial seed importers must declare all imports 24 hours prior to arrival using a Notice of Intent to import form, which can be downloaded from this page.

The outside af all parcels and cartons should be clearly marked for 'WA Quarantine' attention. Should your parcel or order arrive with no obvious signs of quarantine inspection you have a legal requirement to contact Quarantine WA on +61 (0) 8 9334 1800 to declare your seed imports and book an inspection. Penalties may be applied for non-compliance.

Keep in mind that inspection fees may also apply to your order. Many suppliers have arranged for a special charging arrangement and will accept inspection fees on behalf of their customers, but you should check this first before ordering. Alternatively, if you only wish to order a small quantity it may be best to check if the seed you are after is available from WA suppliers first.

For any further enquiries please email QWA_SeedsOffice@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Contact information

Quarantine WA Imports - Seeds