The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR) issues export permits and important export certificates for commodities in categories like dairy, eggs, fish and more. To make the process simple, the department takes a number of measures. For instance, it uses the electronic system called EXDOC.com.au to make it convenient for the exporters to request for permits in a faster and hassle-free manner. In addition, it allows individuals to register as an approved export permit issuer (AEPI) so that the task of issuing export permits runs smoothly and uninterruptedly.

As an exporter, you may also register with the department as an AEPI. Or, you may contact an AEPI to apply for the export permits. Here is a small guide about the role of an AEPI and the process to obtain the status.

Get Started As an EDI User

The first step to applying for an AEPI status is to register with the DAWR’s EXDOC system as an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) user. It is a simple process in which you need to submit an EXDOC.com.au registration form and buy or subscribe to software that is compatible to communicate with the EXDOC system. The department has a list of software vendors who are approved to provide such software tools. If you don’t want to register as an EDI user, you must find a registered EDI user to follow the process of AEPI application.

Application for AEPI

You are required to fill an application form to share your details that confirm your eligibility as the right applicant for an AEPI status. Next, you need to fill the declaration of understanding that can be done manually or electronically. Apart from the application and declaration of understanding, you need to confirm your business needs through a checklist. The checklist consists of declarations of compliance for each product category you want to export, compliance with the importing country requirements, product descriptions and more.

The completed application form must either be sent by post or emailed to the DAWR. The department would review and verify the information and issue the AEPI ID if everything is found to be appropriate.

Role of an AEPI

As an export permit issuer, you would be responsible to ensure that the products intended for export:

• Meet all important requirements of export legislation of Australia
• Comply with specific requirements of the importing country
• Undergo the required product tests and inspections
• Are a part of an approved export chain

However, if you don’t wish to register as an AEPI, you may directly reach out to the regional team of the DAWR for export permit requests. It is better to use electronic software for the entire process to apply for the export permit quickly and at less cost. You may also use these tools to apply for the necessary export documents like Phytosanitary Certificates that are mandatory for the consignments containing plants and plant products. Make sure that you consult an export in export documentation to avoid common mistakes in the processes described above.