2024-07: Update on the approved amendment to the National Standard for Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce – Algae

Attention
Organic operators and exporters, approved certifying bodies, industry bodies
 

Purpose

To provide an update on the approved amendment to the National Standard for Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce (National Standard) – algae.

This organic notice replaces the previously issued organic notice IAN 2023-07.

Key Points

Applications to amend the National Standard to include algae were received in 2023. A subsequent public consultation was held via the department's Have Your Say website on proposed amendments to the National Standard to include algae standards in section 1.24. The proposed amendments and responses were reviewed, and the department approved the addition of algae into the National Standard to be completed in 2024.

The department and the National Standard Advisory Committee (NSAC) consider it important that a final review of the amendments to the National Standard be undertaken to ensure the algae standards are robust, scientifically sound, and relevant to industry and our trading partners.

The department and the NSAC have agreed to establish a working group of technical experts to finalise the algae standards. The department will shortly publish an organic notice calling for experts and qualified persons to join the algae working group, with the view to finalising the official algae standards within the National Standard as planned in 2024.

Background

Applications to amend the National Standard can be made and submitted online via the department's website.

Consultation on amendment proposals to the National Standard are located on the department's Have Your Say webpage.

An online form is also available to ask questions on the content of, or an interpretation of, the National Standard.

Further information

Contact OrganicExports@aff.gov.au if you have any queries.

The information provided in this advice is current at the time of writing and is intended for use as guidance only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. The Commonwealth endeavours to keep information current and accurate, however, it may be subject to change without notice. Exporters are encouraged to verify these details with their importers prior to undertaking production/exports. The Commonwealth will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on information contained in this notice.