Finds and fines highlight strength of Australia’s biosecurity system

Australia’s robust biosecurity system will be front and centre for the inaugural National Biosecurity Week from 26 to 30 August 2024.

Biosecurity threats can be brought in with travellers, sent through the post, come through in cargo or even blow in on the wind.

That’s why the Albanese Labor Government has invested new biosecurity funding of more than $1 billion over 4 years. 

This will ensure that for the first time in Australia’s history we have a sustainable biosecurity funding model to protect our agricultural industry, our natural environment and our way of life.

Last financial year there were more than 21 million international travellers who arrived in Australia, and 365,000 detections of biosecurity risk items. 

Risky items include food, seeds, plants, spice and feathers.

More than 2.5 million containers and 124 million consignments arrived by sea and air, of which more than 623,000 were assessed and more than 274,000 inspected.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP:   

“Australia’s biosecurity system is designed to protect our agriculture sector, our environment and our way of life.

“It makes a vital contribution to our farmers’ ability to maintain their reputation as producers of clean, green produce. 

“That’s why our Government’s new investments are so critical. 

“It’s important for everyone to be biosecurity aware, whether you’re coming home from an overseas holiday or just shopping online.

“The best thing we can do is declare any risky items – or leave them behind. 

“Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have a role to play to keep our country safe.”