The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) is working to maintain Australian export supply chains in the face of the COVID-19 crisis.
In a statement, DAWE said it was responding to rapidly changing circumstances while working to protect people, businesses and Australia’s ongoing access to international markets.
“Our staff are working collaboratively with industry to ensure ongoing compliance with export standards as well as importing country requirements,” the Department said.
It said while alternative procedures may be implemented for some Departmental activities, its on-site interactions within the export sector must continue.
“Where an establishment is seeking to continue to prepare, pack and/or store product for export, Departmental staff undertaking regulatory tasks will require access to the premises,” it said.
“We require Departmental staff undertaking regulatory tasks to be aware of, and comply with, work health and safety procedures, health and hygiene requirements, protective equipment, vaccination requirements and any other task related duties of the department and that of the external premise owner.
It said Departmental staff had been provided with timely and ongoing advice to ensure they follow the latest health and safety procedures in relation to COVID-19.
“There has been minimal impact on the Department’s workforce at this point in time,” DAWE said.
“The Department does have active business continuity and contingency plans in place and is activating these should circumstances require.”
DAWE said its planning was now focused on ensuring all export certification could continue amid the health crisis.
