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Posted by Allen Newton
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06 Oct, 2026
THE Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has suspended Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics NV (WWL) as an approved offshore biosecurity treatment provider, citing “critical non‑compliance”.
The suspension took effect on 2 October 2026 and has immediate consequences for vehicle, machinery and break‑bulk imports into Australia.
DAFF’s Industry Advice Notice 169‑2026 confirms WWL has been formally listed as suspended on the department’s List of Treatment Providers, meaning treatment certificates issued by the company will no longer be accepted.
The ruling applies to all certificates, including those issued before the suspension date.
DAFF said consignments treated by WWL, including cargo already in transit to Australia, may be directed for further action on arrival.
This may include re‑inspection, re‑treatment, or other measures deemed necessary to manage biosecurity risk.
The department has advised importers, freight forwarders, vessel masters and Biosecurity Industry Participants to consult BICON, the BMSB seasonal measures guidance, and khapra beetle treatment rules for details on how suspended‑provider cargo will be handled at the border.
The suspension is expected to affect vehicles, machinery and break‑bulk cargo arriving at major ports including Fremantle, Port Kembla, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Cargo treated offshore by WWL may face delays, additional inspection, or mandatory onshore treatment before clearance.
The suspension, early in the BMSB risk season, is likely to increase pressure on onshore treatment capacity, particularly for high‑volume ro-ro and machinery imports.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics is one of the world’s largest ro-ro carriers and logistics providers, operating a global fleet of vehicle carriers and break‑bulk vessels.
The company provides ocean transport for cars, trucks, heavy machinery and project cargo, terminal services at major global ports, inland distribution and processing and offshore biosecurity treatments for Australian‑bound cargo during BMSB and khapra beetle risk periods.
WWL is a key player in the vehicle and machinery import supply chain, particularly for OEMs and equipment manufacturers shipping into Australia.
