Hazardous Materials
The Australian Government is working to strengthen and examine security arrangements for the transport of dangerous goods, with a focus on High Consequence Dangerous Goods (HCDG) and Sensitive Hazardous Materials (SSHM).
HCDGs include:
- various types of explosives
- flammable gases and liquids
- toxic substances
- oxidising agents.
Ammonium nitrate is the only SSHM listed in Australia, to date. SSHMs, like ammonium nitrate, pose a particular risk if used in a terrorist attack. They require secure handling to ensure they are transported and stored correctly, reducing the risk of it falling into the wrong hands.
The following regulations apply to ammonium nitrate access:
- authorisation is required from a State or Territory regulator to import, store, transport or use Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN)
- those seeking authority need to demonstrate legitimate needs for access, secure storage and handling procedures
- those responsible for security of SSAN must undergo background checking, including police and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) checks
- implementation of risk assessment-based security plans approved by a regulator
- mandatory reporting of theft, attempted theft, loss and discrepancies.
For information on transporting dangerous good by sea contact the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
For information on transporting dangerous good by air contact the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
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