In Australia, under the Customs Act 1901, only licensed customs brokers—or the owner of goods—can submit import declarations for goods cleared into home consumption. Most businesses engage brokers to navigate complex regulations, avoid entry errors, and minimise costly delays or penalties.
Licensing & Qualifications
- All customs brokers in Australia must hold a licence issued by the Department of Home Affairs
- Common pathway:
- Complete the Diploma of Customs Broking (TLI50822).
- Gain supervised workplace experience.
- Sit (if required) a national exam.
- Participate in mandatory continuing professional development (CPD)—typically 30 points annually
- ABF tightened “fit and proper person” checks as of 5 March 2025, enabling electronic licence applications & broader nominee definitions
Key Roles in the Supply Chain
Customs brokers act as a vital bridge between importers and authorities by:
- Classifying goods accurately to calculate duties and taxes.
- Completing import documentation, including permits and licences.
- Liaising with customs officials and expediting clearances
- Mitigating compliance risks, such as misclassification or incorrect valuations.
- Guiding tariff opportunities, HS codes, and trade agreements (e.g., India ECTA)
This reduces delays, penalties, and errors that could disrupt the entire supply chain .
Regulatory & Technological Context (2025 Outlook)
- Customs Amendment Legislation (from 5 March 2025) enhances digital licence administration and tighter security for trusted trade partners.
- Illegal Logging Reforms (effective 3 March 2025): brokers must ensure oversight of timber legality, treatment standards, and documentation
- Biosecurity measures continue to tighten, with DAFF requiring certifications, fumigation verification and compliance audits .
- New CPD requirements issued by DAFF must be completed by 17 March 2025
Supply Chain Trends & Impacts on Brokerage
a) Digital Transformation & Data
AI-powered tools, real-time platforms, and e-signatures are becoming core features.
Customs data is now the “currency” of trade—vital for visibility & resilience
b) Resilience & Sustainability
Increased investment in robust networks and rail infrastructure—Australia’s freight is up to three times costlier than elsewhere
Push for traceability (using blockchain, IoT) to comply with ESG and biosecurity laws
c) Geopolitical Change
Agreements like Australia–India ECTA and the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) diversify routes beyond China
d) Freight Costs & Policy
Regulatory pressure on brokers to maintain strict compliance—part of new “additional licence conditions” since July 2024 .
Why Brokers Matter More Than Ever
- They help businesses maintain compliance and avoid expensive disruptions.
- They enable faster clearance via expert handling of complex regulations.
- They optimise tariff management and trade-agreement benefits.
- They manage emerging risks—illegal logging, biosecurity threats, digital adoption, climate impacts.
Business Recommendations
- Choose a trusted-operator broker accredited under Australian Trusted Trader (ATT)
- Ensure brokers offer digital platform integration and data visibility.
- Regularly review CPD credentials, biosecurity practices, and licence compliance.
- Monitor supply chain resilience strategies: rail vs road freight shifts post extreme weather events
Conclusion
In 2025, customs brokerage in Australia has evolved from a transactional service into a critical strategic partner. As digitalisation, regulatory complexity, and global uncertainty rise, brokers play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless, secure, and compliant supply chain operations. By partnering with digitally advanced and accredited brokers, businesses safeguard their goods, reduce costs, and build resilience.
