You may need this permit if you intend to export, import or transit hazardous waste through a different country on the way to its final destination. You will also be required to comply with the Basel Convention if you intend to apply for a permit to export hazardous waste.
The Basel Convention is an international treaty to which Australia is a signatory. Under the Convention, Australia has a responsibility to ensure that hazardous wastes are managed in an environmentally sound manner - including an obligation to control and reduce international movements of hazardous waste.
A permit will not be granted unless the hazardous waste will be disposed by a method that is within the scope of Section A of Annex IV to the Basel Convention.
Hazardous wastes are prescribed in the Basel Convention and generally have characteristics such as being:
- flammable
- explosive
- poisonous
- toxic
- exotoxic
- infectious.