3 min article

Plants and seeds policy

The sale of live plants and seeds is heavily regulated in Australia because of the risk of introducing pests and diseases into the country.

This policy was updated on 18 December 2023. Our policy guidelines have not changed, but the information about activity that doesn't follow this policy has been updated for clarity.

We have strict guidelines for the import, export and domestic sale of plants, seeds and other plant materials.

What is the policy?

  • Domestic sales of plants and seeds   Plants and plant products can be listed for sale within Australia only if they can legally enter the state or territory without restriction. For more information, refer to the Interstate Quarantine - opens in new window or tab website

Additional information

Live plants and seeds detected by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry - opens in new window or tab that are not permitted will be confiscated and destroyed. Mail entry points into Australia (including air courier) are monitored by X-rays, detector dogs and manual inspection of mail articles.

Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn't, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.

Tip
Visit Seller Help - opens in new window or tab to find details of any policy issues with your account or listings, and get the information you need to quickly resolve them.

Why does eBay have this policy?

This policy exists to keep pests and diseases out of Australia and prevent their spread from one part of Australia to another. It supports the work that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry undertakes to regulate and control the entry of live plants and seeds from overseas. International and domestic sellers and buyers are responsible for making sure their transactions meet all relevant requirements and comply with applicable biosecurity laws.

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