Non-indigenous Animals Act 1987.

The Act, consisting of 29 sections divided into five Parts and completed by three Schedules, provides for the constitution of the Non-indigenous Animals Advisory Committee, whose functions shall pertain to the following: (a) to advise the Minister as to the proper classification of animals in categories and any other relevant matter; (b) to advise the Minister as to general criteria in relation to the granting of licences and permits; (c) to provide such other advice as may be required by the Minister. According to the provisions of section 6, implementing regulations may prescribe categories of animals, identify such categories as controlled categories (in particular, higher-risk or lower-risk categories), and classify animals, by species, as belonging to any prescribed category. The classification of animals under section 6 shall be based on: (a) the animal's pest potential with respect to agricultural and pastoral interests and the environment; (b) any danger posed by the animal to humans; (c) security requirements for keeping or transporting the animal; (d) the degree to which the animal, if actually or potentially a pest, is already established; (e) any other factors identified by the regulations. The importation, keeping, movement and release or escape of non-indigenous animals, otherwise than under the authority of a permit and in compliance with any conditions attached to it, is an offence punishable according to the provisions of Part 3. Part 4 establishes the procedure for the granting of said permits and licences (e.g., application for licence, grant and renewal of licences, duration and cancellation of licences, grant of permits, appeals). General provisions establish the obligation of the licensee to furnish a return containing information as required by the Minister, the powers of authorized officers to carry out inspections and make inquiries, as well as to take measures for the enforcement and proper implementation of the Act. The text is completed by three Schedules: Provisions relating to the members of the advisory committee (term of office, remuneration, casual vacancies, etc.); Provisions relating to the procedure of the advisory committee; Savings and transitional provisions.