TRAVEL TIPS AUSTRALIA

Tips for Travelers

Sometimes Traders Won't Tell You the Truth about Where They Obtained Their Products

♀ TRUE BLUE ♂

If you are thinking of bringing wildlife souvenirs or products into Australia, or taking them out of the country. make sure you do it according to the law. As well as approvals from Customs and the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, some wildlife products will need permits from the Australian Government's Department of the Environment and Heritage. 

Wildlife Trade Around The World

Many of the world's animals and plants are threatened by uncontrolled trade in wildlife and wildlife parts - during the past I 00 years, three of the eight tiger subspecies have

become extinct, and it is estimated that t here are now fewer than 5000 tigers left in the wild. Global trade in many animals, plants and the various products made from them is controlled

by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

CITES aims to ensure that international trade in wild life does not threaten their survival. 

CITES protects over 30,000 species of animals and plants worldwide.

The import and export of wildlife into and out of Australia is regulated under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The Act is administered by the Department of the Environment and Heritage.

You Can Help Our Wildlife Survive

Wildlife trade is diverse - it can involve live animals or plants or the many products made from them.

This includes products like:

• caviar;
• clams and shells;
• exotic leather goods;
• musical instruments;
• souvenirs; and
• complementary medicines.

If managed properly. trade need not threaten species with extinction. Careful management of

import and export helps to ensure that these species survive for future generations.

Know Before You Go-

 How Does The Law Affect You?

Some tourist souvenirs can threaten the most endangered species, and you may be unaware that you are breaking the law by bringing them home. For example ivory (elephant) and

tortoise shell (marine turtle), are both made from threatened animals.

Sometimes traders won't really know whether or not you need a permit. Don't be fooled by statements like, "believe me, it's OK". If you intend to buy wildlife products during your travels,

contact the Department of the Environment and Heritage before you leave or enter Australia to find out if you need a permit. Without the correct permit, your product will be seized by Customs.

If In Doubt?

Check It OUT

Advanced Technology

References:

http://www.customs.gov.au/

http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis

http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/wildlife-trade/