Bringing New Zealand Whitebait and Oysters to Australia: Not Allowed

You cannot bring frozen whitebait or oysters from New Zealand into Australia. Both are prohibited under Australia's strict biosecurity laws.

Why the Ban?

• Disease risk: Whitebait and oysters can carry pathogens (viruses, bacteria, parasites) absent in Australian waters—e.g., Bonamia ostreae (oyster parasite), unnamed whitebait viruses.
• Ecosystem protection: Introduction could devastate native fisheries, aquaculture ($1B+ industry), and marine biodiversity.
• Precedent: Past incursions (e.g., Pacific oyster mortality syndrome) caused massive die-offs and trade restrictions.

What You Can Do

• Declare all food on your Incoming Passenger Card—failure risks fines (up to A$2,664) or visa cancellation.
• Check BICON (Biosecurity Import Conditions database) for any seafood before travel.
• Enjoy locally: Australia produces excellent whitebait (Tasmania) and oysters (Coffin Bay, Sydney Rock, Angasi).

For current details, visit agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity or use the "Can I bring it in?" tool.