How might I be identified for an audit?

Audits can be conducted on a targeted or proactive basis.

Targeted audits are where entities are identified through an assessment of non-compliance risk. This risk is identified using a variety of considerations, such as non-compliance history, intelligence, current or emerging trends, and the number and type of registrations, approvals or permits held by a particular entity.

Proactive audits are typically undertaken as part of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority's (APVMA) responsibility to ensure safe and efficacious chemicals, and overall compliance with the regulatory scheme. Entities selected for a proactive audit are done so solely on a random basis.

Will it cost me anything if I am selected for an audit?

No.

What sort of things will be audited?

Audits will assess the level of compliance with conditions attached to product registrations, active approvals or permits.

Will I be notified of an audit?

The APVMA will provide you with written notification of a planned audit activity. If you are not contacted, you have not been selected for an audit.

How do I respond to an audit request?

If you are notified by the APVMA that you have been selected for an audit, an APVMA Officer will guide you through what is required, including how to respond to an audit request.

Will I need to attend the APVMA Offices for an audit?

No.

What can I expect at the end of an audit?

At the conclusion of the audit, you will receive written notification that the audit has been completed and the outcome. If non-compliance is detected, you will be given the opportunity to respond.

In the case of minor issues of non-compliance, you may be required to undertake minor corrective actions. Alternatively, issues of major non-compliance may result in formal investigation.

What if I have concerns about an audit?

If you have concerns about participating in an audit you should, in the first instance, contact the APVMA Officer working on the audit.

The APVMA is committed to conducting compliance audits to a high standard of professionalism.

We will endeavour to help you understand the reason for the audit and the outcome of our audit activity. We will also give you the opportunity to respond to any audit findings.

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