How does the Security-sensitive Dangerous Substances Act regulate ammonium nitrate?
The Act establishes that a person must have a permit that authorises the person to carry out restricted activities in relation to SSAN (Security-Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate). These restricted activities are specified by the COAG Principles. A person can be issued a long-term permit (3 years) or a short-term permit (12 months or less). Applicants for a permit must meet certain general requirements (based on the Principles). The first requirement is to demonstrate a ‘legitimate need’ to carry out the restricted activity. The applicant must then consent to a background check that involves several processes. The Director of Industry Safety must be satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person, which involves checking the applicant’s competency, history relating to other permits or licences, and relevant health factors. These details are also sent to the Commissioner of Police who sends them to the Australian Federal Police and ASIO for background checking (more details on backgrou
