Receiving unwanted seeds

If you receive unsolicited seed packets in the post, you must report it.

Imported seeds are a significant biosecurity risk.

They can carry harmful diseases or invasive species which can have a serious impact on agriculture industries.

What you should do

You must not plant the seeds or throw them in the bin.

Secure the seeds within the original packaging and seal it in an envelope or plastic bag.

How to report

To report unsolicited seeds, follow these steps:

Step 1. Call the plant pest hotline on 1800 084 881.

Step 2. Fill in the seed analysis and destruction submission form or get a printed form at a collection point below.

Seed analysis and destruction submission form PDF (155.3 KB)
Seed analysis and destruction submission form DOCX (73.8 KB)

Step 3. Place the completed form with the seeds in the collection bin, at any of the following collection points for destruction:

• Berrimah Farm Science Precinct
• Northern Territory Farmers Association Coolalinga office
• Katherine Research Station
• Arid Zone Research Institute (Alice Springs)
• Barkly House (Tennant Creek).

You can also drop seeds off at these locations anonymously for destruction.

To get their addresses, go to the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade website.

More information

For more information and advice, contact plant pathology by calling 08 8999 2261 or emailing plant.pathology@nt.gov.au.

To find out more about bringing or mailing goods, go to the Australian Government's Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment website.