Customs Legislation Amendment (False Trade Marks Infringement Notices) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 25 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the introduction of strict liability offences for importing goods with false trademarks to strengthen border controls against counterfeit items. The Assistant Minister argued that the measure would enhance consumer safety and protect intellectual property rights by allowing infringement notices as an alternative to prosecution. The bill aims to deter criminal enterprises linked to the black market trade of fake goods. The debate concluded with the motion being adjourned.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Wednesday 1 April 2026 · House of Representatives

   Reference to Federation Chamber
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3. Wednesday 1 April 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned a bill to strengthen enforcement against counterfeit imports by introducing strict liability offences and infringement notices. The government supported the measure as necessary for consumer safety and protecting intellectual property, citing examples of dangerous fake goods. The opposition acknowledged the problem but raised concerns about strict liability and lack of consultation, proposing a Senate inquiry. The Nationals supported the bill's intent but highlighted broader economic pressures on businesses. The bill passed its second reading and was referred to a Senate committee.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time and ordered to be reported to the House without amendment.

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4. Wednesday 1 April 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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5. Wednesday 13 May 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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6. Wednesday 13 May 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Customs Legislation Amendment (False Trade Marks Infringement Notices) Bill 2026, which aimed to strengthen measures against counterfeit goods. The Assistant Minister for Regional Development moved the second reading, arguing that the bill would create a strict liability offence for importing goods with false trademarks. The proposal sought to allow the Australian Border Force to serve penalty notices instead of pursuing court action, thereby deterring fraud and protecting consumer safety. The debate was adjourned without a final vote recorded in the transcript.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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7. Thursday 14 May 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated legislation introducing strict liability offences for importing goods with false trademarks and enabling financial penalty notices. The National Party supported the bill but highlighted concerns regarding strict liability and limited consultation, noting they had referred it to inquiry. The Greens raised significant concerns about the broad scope potentially catching personal imports and the lack of distinction between dangerous goods and low-risk items. The Assistant Minister commended the bill to the Senate, which passed the second reading.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time.

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8. Thursday 14 May 2026 · Senate

   Third Reading
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