Biosecurity safeguards Western Australia's agriculture, economy, environment and human health from the risks of introduced pests, diseases and weeds. As well as preventing new animal and plant pests, diseases and weeds from arriving, biosecurity involves controlling those already present.

Why is Biosecurity Necessary?

While the need for borders and checkpoints is appreciated, it is not always understood how and why the rules and regulations are applied.

New diseases and pests can not only impact on human health, but also damage agricultural or horticultural production, forestry and tourism and affect trade in international markets. The consequences of failing to protect Western Australia can affect jobs, health and lifestyles.

Biosecurity concerns all of us. Gardeners, producers, researchers, importers, travellers and the community are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and help prevent the introduction and spread of animal and plant pests, diseases and weeds.

Our Role

The Department of Agriculture and Food, in consultation and participation with federal, state and local governments, industry and the community, manages a substantial investment in agriculture biosecurity services which contribute to market competitiveness, profitability and sustainability in Western Australia. Biosecurity services are delivered through a network of dedicated and skilled staff throughout the State. This work is supported by a strong policy and legislative base, and high quality technical services.

Benefits to Industry and the Community

• The risk of exotic diseases is minimised (e.g. foot and mouth disease)
• The risk of agricultural pests is minimised (e.g. fruit fly, codling moth, wild dogs, starlings)
• Eradication of diseases (e.g. footrot, apple scab)
• Costs to producers by keeping pests, diseases and weeds out of the State are minimised (e.g., liver fluke)
• Increased access to markets by ensuring our produce is as free as possible from pests and chemicals (e.g. the hormonal growth promotant declaration system allows access to European markets)
• Customer confidence in Western Australian 'clean, safe' products is assured.

Animal and plant biosecurity is achieved through projects and activities under the following areas:

• Animal Biosecurity
• Plant Biosecurity
• Invasive Species
• Border Biosecurity

Additional information related to this topic is available from:

• Animal Biosecurity in Western Australia
• Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act
• Biosecurity in Western Australia (presentation)
• Farm Biosecurity
• Invasive species: Plant pests, animal pests
• Industry Funding Schemes notice of opt-out form
• Pest and Disease Information Service
• Plant Biosecurity in Western Australia
• Quarantine WA
• Small Landholder Information Service